
Class F'cL . fe^ 



WILMINGTON, 



'asli, Ppesenfe ^ Byljupe, 



EMBRACING 



HISTORICAL SKETCHES OF ITS GROWTH AND PROGRESS FROM ITS ESTABLISHMENT TO THE 
PRESENT TIME, TOGETHER WITH OUTLINE OF 



NORTH CAROLINA HISTORY. 



ALSO A REVIEW OF ITS MANUFACTURING, MERCANTILE, NAVAL, AND GENERAL BUSINESS 
ADVANTAGES, TOGETHER WITH STATISTICS OF THE MAGNITUDE OF OPERA- 
TIONS IN THE DIFFERENT TIMES AND INDUCEMENTS 
OFFERED TO ALL CAPITALISTS. 



TO WHICH IS ADDED SKETCHES OF THE PRINCIPAL BUSINESS 
HOUSES AND MANUFACTURING CONCERNS OF THE 



METRDPDLIS DF NORTH CARDLINA. 



-BY- 



J. S. RKILLY. 






%^ 



^^ 




ST. PAUL'S CHURCH. 



GENERAL INDEX. 



PAGE 

A^.ron & Rheinstein, Dry Goods, Notions, Hats and Shoes 87 

Adrian & Vollers, Wholesale Groceries and Liquors 112 

Atkinson & Maning, Insurance Agents JOl 

Ba-nk of New Hanover ; 91 

Bear, Sol., Dry Goods, Clothing, Boots, Shoes, &c 105 

Behrends & Monroe, Dealers in Furniture, Carpets, &c 129 

Bladen Steamboat Company 92 

Boney, G. I . , Pearl Hommy and Grist Mill 100 

Bridgets, P . L. & Co . , Groceries, &c 86 

Brown & Roddick, Wholesale and Retail Dry Goods and Notions. 127 

Brunhild, H. & Bro., Wholesale Liquors and Tobacco * 120 

Cape Fear and People's Steamboat Company 90 

Carolina Rice Mills 81 

Chamber of Commerce go 

Chadboum, J. H & Co., Clarendon Saw and Planing Mills 77 

Champion Compress and Warehouse Company. 107 

Churches 32 

City Government 23 

City of Wilmington, N, C 12 

Commercial Hotel 120 

Cotton 63 

County Government 27 

Cowan Saw and Planing Mill 113 

Craft, Thomas C, Furniture, Mattresses, &c 107 

Crapon, Geo . M . , Retail Grocer lOi) 

Cronly & Morris, Auctioneers and Real Estate Brokers 79 

Croom, J, L., Wholesale and Retail Grocer and Liquor Dealer 116 

I>avid, A., Wholesale and Retail Clothing and Merchant Tailor 117 

DeRosset & Co., Shipping and Commission Merchants 117 

Dyer, John & Son, Tailors and Haberdashers , 99 

Educational Matters, &c 29 

Evans & Von Glahn, Boots, Shoes and Leather Dealers US 

Express Steamboat Company 97 

? financial, &c 59 

irst National Bank of Wilmington '. .*,'.'. ,.*.'.'.',*.*.*. 122 

Fore, James A., Proprietor Harrison Planing Mills ".*..'. ,*.'.'.'.'.' 82 

French, George R. & Sous, Boots, Shoes, 6cq 93 



GENERAL INDEX. 



Gilbert, H. D., Bakery, &c 85 

Giles & Muichison, Hardware, Queensware, &c 119 

Goodman, Wm., Dry Goods, Gents' Furnishing Goods, &c 99 

Gore, D. L , Wholesale Grocer and Commission Merchant Ill 

Gore, W. I & Son, Commission Merchants 113 

Green, W, H., Wholesale and Retail Drugs 122 

Hansen L. & Co., Ship Chandlers and Grocers 112 

Harbor and River Improvements 44 

Harriss, Geo. & Co. , General Commission Merchants and Ship Brokers 125 

Harriss, Dr. W. W., Cotton and Naval Stores Broker 114 

Hayden, P. H., Carriages, Harness, &c 86 

Heide & Co., Ship Brokers, &c 100 

Heinsberger, P., Live Book and Music Store HI 

Heyer, Matt. J., Wholesale Grocer Liquor Dealer and Commission Merchant 115 

Hicks R. W., Grocer and Commission Merchant 89 

Hollingsworth & Co., Livery and Sales Stable 95 

Holmes & Watters, Grocers, &c • 81 

Huggins, J. B. Si. Co., Family Groceries, &c 110 

Jacobi, N., Hardware, Paints, Oils, &c 109 

Jones, J. H., Livery, Feed and Sales Stable 121 

Katz, M. M., Staple and Fancy Dry Goods . . . 114 

Kenan & Forshee, Merchandise Brokers 109 

Kerchuer & Calder Bros., Wholesale Grocers and Commission Merchants 79 

King, F. M. & Co., Tinware, Stoves, &c 98 

Ijinder, G. W., Grocer and Liquor Dealer 89 

Love, C. S. & Co., Coramisiion Merchants . 92 

Lumber and Shingles VI 

■J^aliard, J. H., Harness, Saddlery, Collars, &c 129 

Manufacturing Advantages, &c 62 

Martin, Alfred, Commission Merchant and Manufacturer of Turpentine and Rosin 102 

McDougall & Bowden, Dealers and Manufacturers of Carriages and Harness 130 

Mcllhenny, J. K , Wholesale and Retail Drug Store 102 

Mebane, Chas. P., Ship Broker, Commission Merchant, &c 94 

Metts, James J., Merchandise and Produce Broker 127 

Miscellaneous Manufacturing and Mercantile Interests 72 

Mitchell, B. F., & Son, Commission Merchants, Millers and Grain Dealers. 124 

Munds Bros. & DeRossett, Druggists, &c 119 

Munds, James C, Druggist 85 

Munson's Clothing and Merchant Tailoring Rooms 117 

Ifaval Stores and Turpentine Products 65 

New York and Wilmington Steamship Company 94 

Northrop & Cuming, Lumber, Shingles, &c 103 

Ocean Carrying Trade and Shipping Interests " 51 

Oldham & Co. , Corn Mill, Meal and Feed 105 

Otterbourg, L. J., Wholesale and Retail Clothier 110 

I>arker & Taylor, Stoves, Tinware and House Furnishing Goods 83 

Parsley & Wiggins, Saw and Planing Mill, Sash, Doors and Blinds 116 

Patterson, Downing & Co., (Roger Moore, Manager), Exporters of Naval Stores, &c 129 

Peck, Geo. A., Hardware, Sash, Doors, Blinds, &c 89 

Penny, W. J. & B. F., Wholesale and Retail Dry Goods, Notions, Clothing, &c 123 

Peschau, E. & Westermann. Ship Brokers and Commission Merchants 128 

Powers, E. J., Guano Company 95 

Press (The), Its History, &c 34 

Preston Cuming & Co., Corn Mill, and Dealers in Grain, Feed and Peanuts 126 

Produce Exchange 60 

Public Institutions, &c 37 

R,iver Navigation 59 

Robert Portner Brewing Company 80 

Shotler. S. P. & Co., Naval Stores 108 

Shrier, I., Wholesale and Retail Clothing and Gents' Furnishing Goods 124 

Smith, D. A. , Dealer in Furniture. &c 104 

Southerland, T. J., Livery Stable 101 



GENERAL INDEX. 



Springer, J. A., Dealer in Coal, Wood and Cypress Shingles 128 

Springer, W. E. & Co., Wholesale Hardware and Dealers in Agricultural Implements 115 

Sprunt, Alexander, & Son, Naval Stores and Cotton Brokers 125 

State of North Carolina 10 

Stevenson, J. C, Groceries, Provisions, &c 86 

Xabular Statement of Destination of Exports ... 76 

Taylor, J. W., Saw Mill, &c '.'.... 82 

The Achme Manufacturing Company, and Manufacturers of Cotton Seed Oil, Fertilizers, &c. . . 83 

The Navassa Guano Company, Fertilizers, Sulphuric and Muriatic Acids 91 

The Purcell House 97 

The Wilmington Cotton Mills " '. 88 

Thomas, Orin T. . Art Studio 118 

To the People of Wilmington 77 

Transportation Facilities 48 

Turrentine, John R., General Merchandise and Produce Broker 121 

West & Co., Wholesale and Retail Grocers 104 

Wheeler & Wilson Manufacturing Company 105 

Willard, A . A., Salt and Cotton Buyer 98 

Willard, M. S ., Insurance Agent 98 

Wilmington Compress and Warehouse Company 96 

Wilmington in 1884 22 

Wilminton Iron and Copper Works 108 

Woody & Currie, Commission Merchants 96 

Worth & Worth, Naval Stores, Cotton, Molasses, Groceries, &c '. 90 

Wright, C. B., Flour, Pearl Hominy and Meal Ill 

Yates, C. W., Books and Stationery, Pianos, Organs, Photograph Gallery, &c 126 





TILESTON NORMAL SCHOOL, Miss Amy M. Bradley, Principal. 



INTRODUCTORY. 



It has been said, that the value of anything may be determined by the attitudes 
and positions you can place it in, and in how many different aspects it may be regarded. 
Judging by these rules we may certainly flatter ourselves that this publication is a very 
important and useful one. It is important and useful as giving, in concise yet com- 
prehensive form, an exhibit of the trade and commerce of the city, together with 
sketches of her leading business interests. It will be found interesting to the general 
reader, in that it contains as complete a record of the historical events connected with 
the early settlement and progress of this section as can be gathered together at this 
day. It will be of service also with respect to the material advancement and develop- 
ment of the resources and advantages of this community, presenting, as it does, some 
idea of the great possibilities held out to future enterprise. 

But we prefer that the work should speak for itself. The facts that are stated in 
the following pages may be implicitly relied on, for we ai;e not residents of Wilmington, 
and our review is an entirely impartial one. In a work of this character there is noth- 
ing left to the imagination, and facts and figures have been carefully gathered with the 
utmost care and without regard to expense. 

Our work, then, is presented to the public with the belief that it is as nearly ac- 
curate as such a work could possibly be made. 

Before concluding, we take occasion to return our thanks to the liberal and enter- 
prising citizens of Wilmington for many kindnesses and hospitalities received at their 
hands, and for the generous patronage bestowed upon our efforts. 

We are especially under obligations to Hon. A. H. VanBokkelen, President of 
the Chamber of Commerce; Roger Moore, Esq., President of the Produce Exchange; 
Col. John L. Cantwell, Secretary of the same; C. P. Mebane, Esq., and the city press. 

THE PUBLISHERS. 



THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA. 



It would be impossible for our work to be complete did we fail to make some al- 
lusion to the great State upon whose broad bosom the City of Wilmington has grown, 
and from whose resources she has drawn the vitalizing elements of prosperity. 

The State of North Carolina, by ihe enormous extent of her relations, agricultural, 
industrial, commercial and social, has long been recognized as a leading commonwealth 
in the sisterhood of States. Placed under a kindly sky, in a temperate cHmate, in the 
center of a great civilization, midway between New York and the Gulf of Mexico, she 
proudly takes her place on equal terms with her sister States, and is dependent alone 
upon her own boundless resources and the energy and enterprise of her people. North 
Carolina is bounded on the north by Virginia, on the east by the Atlantic Ocean, on 
the south by South Carolina and on the west by Tennessee, and is the most northerly 
of all the South Atlantic States. It is often called the '-'Old North State." It is situ- 
ated between parallels 34° and 36^° north latitude, and between the meridians 75° 
27^ and 84°203^' west from Greenwich. In point of size North Carolina is the six- 
teenth state in the Union, and is almost exactly the size of England. The extreme 
length of the State from east to west is 503^ miles, its average breadth is 100 miles; 
its extreme breadth is 187^ miles. Its area embraces 52,286 square miles, of which 
48,666 is land, and 3,620 is water. 

Its topography may be best conceived by picturing to the mind's eye the surface 
of the State as a vast declivity, sloping down from the summits of the Smoky Moun- 
tains, an altitude of 7,000 feet to the level of the Atlantic Ocean. The Smoky Moun- 
tains constitute a part of the great Appolachian Chain, which here attains its greatest 
height ; the greatest, indeed, in the United States, east of the Rocky Mountains. 

This slope is made up of tljree wide extended terraces — if the expression may be 
allowed; the first is a high mountain plateau — distinguished as the Western or Moun- 
tain Section ; the second, a sub-montane plateau, distinguished as the Middle Section, 
of which the western half is still further distinguished as the Piedmont Section ; the 
third, the Atlantic Plain, distinguished as the Low Country or Eastern Section, and 
that part from the head of the tides downward, as the Tide-water Section. From the 
first to the second section there is a sharp descent through a few miles only of not less 
than fifteen hundred feet ; from the middle to the low country a descent of about two 
hundred feet; through the two latter, however, there is a constant downward grade. 

The State is traversed by two ranges of mountains. The first is the Blue Ridge, 
a grand and lofty chain, which conforming to the trend of the Smoky Montains and 
that of the coast line, runs in a direction northeast and southwest entirely across the 
State. The Brushy and the South Mountains are bold offshoots of this chain. The 
second, the Occoneeche and Uwarrie Mountains, a range of much inferior elevation, 
whose rounded summits and sloping outlines present themselves in forms alike grace- 
ful and pleasing, crossing the State in a parallel direction near its centre. 

The State is watered by numerous rivers, many of which have their rise on the 
flanks of the Blue Ridge. Those which flow west empty into the Mississippi, breaking 
their way through the Smoky Mountains, plunging headlong for miles through chasms 
from three to four thousand feet in depth, the walls of which are perpendicular to the 
height of one thousand feet. Some of these gloomy passages have never been explor- 
ed ; no boat could live in such a current, and no foothold can be found along the sides. 
Of those which rise on the eastern flank, only one, the Roanoke, reaches the sea within 
the borders of the State. The rest following the line of the softest rock, meander first 
towards the northeast, then sweeping round with bold curves, flow to the sea through 
South Carolina. The principal rivers which reach the sea within the State limits take 
their rise in the northern part of the Middle Section, and on the eastern flank of the 
Occoneeche range, near its northern termination, and of these, only one, the Cape 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE, 11 

Fear, flows directly into the ocean. The eastern rivers are navigable from fifty to one 
hundred and fifty miles. 

By reference to the mean parallels of latitude in the United States, it will be seen 
that North Carolina is situated nearly midway of the Union, and, inasmuch as those 
States lie entirely within the temperate zone, it follows that North Carolina is situated 
upon the central belt of that zone. This position gives to the State a climate not ex- 
celled by any in the world. She is exempt from the extreme cold which prevails in the 
Northern States, and to a considerable extent from the early frosts which visit the States 
immediately north of her, on the one hand, and from the torrid heat and malarial in- 
fluences which prevail in the States south of her on the other. Other causes apart from 
position concur to produce this result, but we have not space to mention them. From 
the incoming of October to the latter part of December there is an almost uninterrupt- 
ed succession of bright sunny days, during which the air is dry, crisp and pure — a 
season equally favorable to the ingathering of crops and to active exertion of every 
kind. The reign of winter, as respects cold and wet, is short, and field labor is carried 
on throughout that entire season, with the exception of two or three days at a time. 
The average rainfall throughout the State is fifty-three inches, which is, as a general 
rule, uniformly distributed throughout the year. 

Dr. Kerr, in his Geological Report, classes the climate of the different sections of 
the State, with reference to their isothermal ranges, as follows : 

"Middle and Eastern North Carolina correspond to Middle and Southern France, 
and Western North Carolina to Northern France and Belgium; and all the climates of 
Italy from Palermo to Milan and Venice are represented." 

The population of the State in 1880 was 1,399,750. There were 867,242 white 
persons, 531,277 colored and a few Indians. 

North Carolina was the first State to declare herself independent of Great Britain, 
which was done at Charlotte on the 20th day of May, 1775, at which time the famous 
Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence was signed ; and the first geological survey 
made by public authority in America was made by the State of North Carolina in 1823. 

Another fact worthy of note is, that North Carolina is the only State in the Union 
that fills every agricultural blank sent out by the Department at Washington, 

The following were the farm products of North Carolina in 1880 : 

Cotton, 389,598 bales; Tobacco, 26,986,213 pounds; Corn, 28,019,839 bushels; 
Wheat, 3,397,393 bushels; Oats, 3,838,068 bushels; Rye, 285,160 bushels; Barley, 
2,421 bushels; Buckwheat, 44,668 bushels; Irish Potatoes, 722,773 bushels; Sweet 
Potatoes, 4,576,148 bushels; Hay, 93,711 tons; Rice, 5,609,191 pounds; Wool, 
917,756 pounds; Butter, 7,212,507 pounds; Horses, 133,686; Mules, 81,871; Milch 
Cows, 232,133; Cattle, 425,293; Sheep, 461,638; Hogs, 1,453,541 

The total number of farms in the State in 1880 was 157,609. 

The following figures give the manufactures of North Carolina for 1880 : 

Value of No. of Hands 
Products. Employed. 

Naval Stores $1,758,488 1,798 

Lumber 2,672,796 3,029 

Tobacco 2,215,154 3,583 

Flour and Mill Products 6,462,806 1,844 

Cotton Goods 2,554,482 3,232 

Woolen Goods 303,160 185 

Paper, Printing and Publishing 145,000 105 

Carriages and Wagons 334,900 380 

Agricultural Implements 178,449 257 

Leather, tanned ,. 367,920 220 

Fertilizers 300,000 125 

No section of the country presents more favorable inducements to enterprise and 
industry than the State of North CaroUna. In fertility and variety of soil, unlimited 
mineral resources and healthfulness of climate, her advantages are unsurpassed, and 
offer to capital and labor a vast field for active and successful operations. 



12 WILMINGTON PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 



THE CITY OF WILMINGTON, N. C.-ITS HISTORY. 



We, of the present day, are so imbued with the notion of this being an age of 
progress and enHghtenment, as compared with its predecessors, that we very frequently 
either altogether deride the attainments and performances of our forefathers, as being 
unworthy of our attention, or regard them with such a cold, patronizing glance, that 
our approval of them is rather an insult than an honor to their memory. And yet 
there are times when this self laudation is not only ill-timed, but unfounded; when it 
would contribute much more to our present benefit, if we thought how little rather 
than how much we had progressed, and considered that, while running more speedily 
than our predecessors, we may be on an entirely different line, instead of the direct 
roadway which they were pursuing. It would be well, then, if every one were at least 
familiar with the leading events connected with the history and early settlement of the 
community in which he resides, and had some knowledge of the character of the people 
to whom the civilization of to-day is so much indebted. Of all the departments of in- 
telligent research, the study of historical events is certainly the most interesting, hav- 
ing attractions peculiarly its own. The student of human nature here finds the lives of 
all kinds of men, the circumstances that led to the formation of their characters, and 
the influence they exerted upon their contemporaries and their posterity. The student 
of prophecy here finds the data upon which his surmises regarding the unforseen future 
must be built. Gathering together the tangled webs of the past, and looking at their 
issues, he has some guide as to what is likely to spring from the events going on around 
him, and a clue to the movements and changes to which in turn these will give rise. 

The voluminousness of historic detail, however, brings with it one or two serious 
drawbacks — one is, that it is impossibe to overtake all history, and it is, therefore, need- 
ful to confine one's attention to a comparatively limited portion of it. It would be 
impossible, for instance, to write a complete history of the world for a single year — for 
no building could contain the books that would have to be written — a lifetime would 
not suffice to write it — a lifetime would no be long enough in which to read it. 

Recognizing the full force of what we have said, and, also, that "brevity is the 
soul of wit," — as well as having a due regard for the purposes with which this volume is 
published — we content oureslves with endeavoring to present, in as concise a 
shape as we may, some few of the principal events of the city's past history, trusting 
that we may be able to make at least some slight record of those early times so preg- 
nant of the city's future greatness and importance, as well as of her latter days of per- 
manent and assured prosperity. 

Before proceeding at once with our subject, it would, perhaps, prove of interest to 
our readers to know that there are many who contend that the name of the majestic 
river to which Wilmington owes her existence as a city, should be called by another 
name : that is to say, that Cape Fear should be Cape Fair. It is said that the name 
was originally so given because its surroundings presented to the early adventurers so 
fair and attractive an appearance. It is, furthermore, stated by some authorities that 
neither the cape or river were ever called by the present name until after 1750, and 
never officially until 1780. The preponderance of evidence, however, is strongly in 
favor of the existing name as against the more attractive appellation. The word was 
unquestionably often spelt " Fair," and there is, therefore, some foundation for the con- 
troversy. The true explanation of the apparent misnomer is, doubtless, to be found 
in the fact, that in those days a most startling latitude and license in the matter of 
spelling was universally allowed and most recklessly indulged in — every man being, as 
it were, his own Webster. Plantation was "plantacon;" proposals were " proposealls ; " 
grant was " grannte ; " engage, " ingaige ; " growth, *' groathe," and so on ad infitiitum. 
In pursuing this inquiry, it must be borne in mind that it is to the name of the cape, 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 13 

and not that of the river, that investigation must be directed, as for nearly a hundred 
years the cape bore its name before the river was known to history. In De Bry's map 
of Lane's expedition, 1585, although no name is given to the cape, the two Latin 
words, '■'■ promontorium tremefidum," sufficiently attest the knowledge of its location and 
dangerous existence. In the narative of Sir Richard Greenville's first expedition in 
the same year, the following entry is read for the month of June, 1585 : " The 23d 
we were in great danger of a wreck on a breach called the Cape of Fear." Again, two 
years later, in the narrative of White's first voyage, we are told that in July, 1587, 
" had not Captam Stafford been more careful in looking out than our Simon Fernando, 
we had all been cast away upon the breach called the Cape of Fear." It will be observed 
that in those days a '■'■breach'' constituted a beach. The river at first bore a diff'erent 
name, being called Charles River, and it was some time after 1663, that it took the 
name of the cape, and was called Cape Fear River. The first settlement on what is 
now Cape Fear River, was made in 1659 or '60, but was abandoned in 1663. In the 
same year one of the first acts of the Lords Proprietors of the Colonies, after receiving the 
liberal grant from the Crown, was to publish an important document, denominated the 
*' Declaration and Proposealls to ally'/ will plant in Carohna." It was published in Au- 
gust, 1663, and one of the first results effected was during the autumn of 1665, when Sir 
John Yeamans, with a colony of men from Barbadoes, sailed into Cape Fear River in 
search of a site for settlement. It was one of the strict requirements of the " Propos- 
als " of the Lords Proprietors that for every fifty acres of land granted there should 
always be one man, "armed w//; a good firelock musket, performed boare, 12 bullets to 
ye pound, and w/A 20 pounds of powder and 20 pounds of bullets." That's what col- 
onization meant in those days. It was not so much against the Indians, however, as it 
was against the pirates, who infested the coast, and the Spaniards in Florida, that these 
precautions were necessarily taken. It was, probably, through fear of the latter that 
the Lords Proprietors were so anxious that settlements should be made to the westward 
of Cape Fear in order that the North and South Provinces might the more readily af- 
ford each other mutual aid and protection. However that may be, the first condi 
tion in the Proposals was: "If ye first coUony will settle on Charles River, near 
Cape Feare, y^ch seems to be desired, it shal be free for them soe to doe, on ye larboard 
side enteering. If in any other parte of ye Terrytory, then to chose eithr side, if by 
a rivr." The colonists were empowered to fortify the mouth of the river, and were 
presented by the King with twelve pieces of cannon and a considerable amount of 
ammunition for that purpose. Agreeably to the terms and stipulations contained in the 
Proposals, Sir John and his men landed on the west side of the river, selected a site, 
and laid the foundation of a town. In honor of the reigning King, it was called 
Charleston, or as it was at first, and for years afterwards written, Charles Towne. 
Among historians there has been much doubt and uncertainty as to the exact place se- 
lected, but tradition has fixed the spot beyond dispute. It was at or near the junction 
of Old Town Creek with the river, about eight miles below Wilmington, on the north 
side of the river, an evidence of which may be found, if any were wanting, in the fact 
that just before our late civil war an old cannon was found, deeply imbedded in the 
earth, and almost devoured by rust, at this spot 

The town "assumed immediate importance, and in less than two years numbered 
eight hundred souls ; and built up an important trade with the West Indies, particularly 
in timber and staves." And such was the desire for emigration to it from Barbadoes 
that the Legislature there felt called upon to pass an act prohibiting " the spiriting 
people off" the Island." Its prosperity, however, was but temporary, and it soon began 
to decline. It can now only be conjectured what caused its decay. At any rate in 
1671 Sir John was appointed to succeed Governor Sayle, and together with most of the 
colonists sailed for Port Royal in the Southern Province, and afterwards removed to 
the neck of land between Ashley and Cooper Rivers, and founded the present city of 
Charleston, S. C. Many of his descendants are still Hving. The new town afterwards 
went totally out of existence, and it is conjectured by some that what few inhabitants 
it had left founded the old town of Brunswick. Brunswick was situated on the river, 
some sixteen miles below the present City of Wilmington, at the place afterwards 
known as Fort Anderson, which was the scene, during the late war between the States, 



14 WILMINGTON PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

of one of the most terrific bombardments known in the history of modern warfare. 
Our first authentic knowledge of it begins in 1820, and in 1825 Col. Maurice Moore, a 
grandson of Sir John Yeamans, received from the Lords Proprietors a grant of 1,500 
acres of land on the west side of the river, and proceeded to lay off a town on its most 
eligible site, which he named Brunswick. Emigration rapidly set in, and many gen- 
tlemen of culture and refinement, we are told, came here from both Carolina and Vir- 
ginia, and others from England. In the same year, also, a number of educated gentle- 
men, disgusted with the despotic laws of New England, settled here. It was from 
ancestors such as these that many of the most illustrious names in the history of this 
section were handed down to the present day. 

The exposed roadstead of Brunswick, and the discovery that its harbor was unsafe 
for such crafts as were then in use for bringmg produce from the upper rivers, neces- 
sitated a further exploration up the line of the river for the purpose of securing a more 
suitable place for the reception and shipment of the produce then constituting the princi- 
pal articles of export from this part of the Province, and the present site of the City of 
Wilmington was determined upon as the best for the purpose required. Accordingly in 
1730 the first settlement was made, a village was laid out, and wharves and buildings 
first erected. It was called New Liverpool. In 1732, a survey having been made for 
the purpose of laying it out as a town, the settlement was called Newton or New Town. 
In 1735, John Watson received a grant for 640 acres of land, situated on the west side 
of the Cape Fear River, and including the village or town of Newton. In 1739, through 
the influence of Gabriel Johnston, then Governor of the Province, the name of New- 
ton was changed, by Legislative enactment, to Wilmington, in honor of his patron, 
Spence Compton. Earl of Wilmington, From this time forward the town of Wil- 
mington grew rapidly in wealth and population, while the old town of Brunswick sank 
into obscurity and decay, and was finally abandoned. It is believed by some that it 
was burned by the British during the War of the Revolution, but that Wilmington had 
previously absorbed almost the entire population. It was near Brunswick that, on the 
8th of August, 1775, Josiah Martin, the last Colonial Governor of North CaroUna, ful- 
minated his proclamation against the famous Mecklenburg Declaration of Independ- 
ence, the Governor at the time being on board H. M. ship Cruiser, whither he had 
fled from the righteous indignation of the people. The only vistiges of the city now 
remaining arc the walls of old St. Philips Church, which was built, prior to the Revo- 
lution, of brick imported from England. The walls are two feet thick, and apparently 
strong enough to stand another century of exposure. It is, by the way, a somewhat 
memorable circumstance that, during the terrific bombardment of Fort Anderson dur- 
ing the late war, by the Federal fleet, on the day and night of the 18th of February, 
1865, not a shell, or even the fragment of a shell, struck the old church, although its 
walls frowned upon the war vessels from the immediate rear of Anderson. 

In 1738 the Parish of St. James embraced the whole of New Hanover county. At 
that period there was no parish church, and in 1747 the Court House was used as a 
place of worship. During this year the lot upon which the Church of St. James now 
stands was presented to the parish by Michael Wiggins, on which the first church was 
afterwards erected. It was nineteen years in course of constructidVi, and when finished 
was a huge, barn-like structure of brick, without ornament, but of most ample accomo- 
dation within. It gave place in 1839 to the present more commodious and elegant 
edifice. An interesting incident in the history of this church is worthy of mention in 
connection with the city's history. In 1749 a number of Spanish privateers, availing 
themselves of the defenseless position of Cape Fear, entered the harbor and committed 
a number of depredations upon the inhabitants. The people hastily collected and at- 
tacked them. During the action one of the pirate vessels was blown up and captured, 
and a number of valuables were taken from the wreck. The proceeds of this property 
were afterwards applied to the building of the churches of St. Philips and St. James at 
Brunswick and Wilmington. Among other acts of the General Assembly of North 
Carolina, will be found the one passed in 1760, authorizing a lottery to raise money to 
build the church of St. James Parish at Wilmington, and. appropriating part of the ef- 
fects of this vessel to the same object. Modern lottery companies are hete presented 
w'th a precedent as to the righteousness of their undertakings. 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 16 



Among the many curious things found in this pirate was an '■'■ Ecce 
Homo" a painting of the Savior in one of the scenes of his passion as described 
in St. John xix, 5. This valuable painting is still preserved in the vestry of St. James' 
Church, and probably came into possession of the pirates in one of their marauding 
descents upon the South American or West Indian coasts. 

In 1758 sixty persons owned houses in the town of Wilmington, valued in the ag 
gregate at $6,625. In 1762 the population of the place approximated one thousand 
persons. February 25th, 1760, the citizens were granted a charter erecting Wilming- 
ton into an incorporate borough, to consist of a Mayor, a Recorder and eleven Alder- 
men. John Sampson was chosen Mayor and Marmaduke Jones, Recorder. Among 
those elected Aldermen were Cornelius Harnett, Dan. Dunhibben, Arthur Mabson, 
Sam. Green and Moses John De Rossett. The borough had power to enact its own 
laws and send a representative to the General Assembly. It seems, however, that a 
portion of this charter must have subsequently been set aside, as we find that afterwards 
the names of five gentlemen chosen appear as Commissioners. 

In September, 1761, a violent equinoctial gale raged along the coast of Cape 
Fear. It lasted four days, and was very disastrous in its effects. Such was the fury 
of the storm, that the waves forced open a new passage from the river to the ocean, 
and what is known as the New Inlet, which has lately been closed at so much trouble 
and expense, dates its existence from this time. 

On September 1, 1764, the first newspaper ever published in Wilmington made its 
appearance. It was called the Cape Fear Gazette and Wilmington Advertiser, and 
was edited and published by Andrew Stewart. 

North Carolina is certainly entitled to precedence of the other colonies in 
taking steps toward throwing off the British yoke, for at Charlotte, m Mecklenburg 
County, on the 20th of May, 1775, there was drawn, signed and sealed, the famous 
Mecklenburg Declaration of Independance. But Cape Fear, as a section, anticipated 
the action of the State. The Stamp Act received the King's assent March 22d, 1765. 
The people of North Ca^rolina were so warm in their indignation, and so violent in 
their opposition to this flagrant violation of the rights of the colonists, that Governor 
Tryon, who was called by the Indians the "Great Wolf of Carolina," was afraid to con- 
vene the General Assembly. 

Early in 1766 the British sloop-of-war. Diligence, arrived in the river Cape Fear, 
having on board the stamped paper destined for the use of this Province, and on the 
6«;h of January the Governor issued a proclamation announcing the circumstance, and 
calling on all persons authorized to act as distributors of the stamps to make application 
therefor to the commander of the sloop. But on the first notice of the arrival of this 
vessel. Col. John Ashe, of the County of New Hanover, and Col. Waddell, of the 
County of Brunswick, assembled the militia of the two counties, and marched at their 
head to the town of Brunswick, where the sloop was anchored, and notified its com- 
mander of their intention to resist the landing of the stamps. It was judged best by 
him not to make the attempt. A party was then left to watch the movements of the 
sloop, and the rest of the militia marched back to Wilmington, carrying with them one 
of the boats belonging to the vessel. Having fixed a mast in it, with a flag attached, 
they hoisted it on a cart and drove triumphantly through the streets of Wilmmgton — 
the inhabitants all joining in the procession. At night the whole town was illummated. 
On the next day a great concourse of people, headed by Col. Ashe, proceeded to the 
residence of the Governor, then situated on the south side of what is now Market 
street, between Front and Water streets, and demanded audience with James Houston, 
one of the Council, who had been appointed Stamp-Master for the Province. The Gov- 
ernor first declared his intention not to allow it, unless Houston would come willingly, 
but the people threatened to set fire to the house, and proceeded to make preparations for 
so doing. The Governor then requested Col. Ashe to step inside and talk over the 
matter with the Stamp-Master, when Houston, finding himself so obnoxious to the peo- 
ple, went with them to the market house, where he took a solemn oath not to proceed 
with the duties of his office, whereupon the people gave him three cheers and con- 
ducted him back to the Governor. Thus ended the first overt act of armed resistence 
to the British Crown. In the latter part of February, at a general militia meeting in 



IB WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND t"UTtJRE, 



the town of Wilmington, the Governor offered to the people there assembled a barbe- 
cued ox and a number of barrels of beer. They were refused ; the ox was thrown in 
the river and the beer poured out on the ground. The Stamp Act was repealed, and 
on the 26th of June the Mayor, Alderman and Recorder of Wilmington presented an 
address to the Governor, congratulating him upon the fact. This manly resistance to 
oppression on the part of the people of the Cape Fear section, was but the first exhibi- 
tion of a valor and patriotic enthusiasm that soon brought about a revolution against 
the most powerful Government on the face of the earth, which finally resulted in the 
establishment of American liberty and independence. 

In August, 1774, the citizens of Wilmington sent to the relief of the people of 
Boston, who were then suffering many privations from the arbitrary enactments of the 
British,' a large sum of money and a vessel of provisions. The vessel was tendered 
free of cost by Parker Quince, Esq. , and the captain and crew refused any compensa- 
tion whatever for their services. 

On the 19th of June, 1775, after the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence 
had been signed, the citizens of Wilmington assembled themselves together and unani- 
mously resolved themselves into an association, whose avowed object was resistance to 
the Government of Great Britain by an appeal to arms. A committee of safety was 
appointed, which remained in office until February 1776, and means of defence aganst 
the British were mimediately collected and arranged. War was immment, and the ut- 
most prudence and foresight were exercised in making the necessary preparations to 
meet the emergency. Knowing that they occupied a revolutionary aspect, and that 
they were at any moment liable to British attack, these patriots did not hesitate. They 
fully appreciated the fact that Fort Johnson was the key to the district; knew that it 
was defended by British bayonets, and that Gov. Martin, the executive head of affairs 
in the State, had there taken refuge. They were fully aware, also, that the guns of 
the British man-of-war. Cruiser, commanded the place. Yet, in the face of all this, 
they were determmed that Fort Johnston should be reduced. Thoroughly frightened 
by the demonstrations of the colonists, Gov. Martin caused the guns and stores of the 
Fort to be removed to the Cruiser, and was preparing to follow them himself, when on 
the 18th of July, Col. John Ashe and his followers appeared before the walls of the 
Fort. Martin immediately fled to the ship, the works at Fort Johnson were burnt and 
destroyed under its very guns, and Col. Ashe and his men returned to Wilmington. In 
the language of another, " Thus, nobly upon the Cape of Fear, closed the first act of 
the drama, and when the curtain rose again, George, by the grace of God, King, was 
King no longer, but the Constitution reigned, and the free people of North Carolina 
governed themselves." 

J3uring the Revolution, the town of Wilmington became a place of much miUtary 
importance. The most important event of this period, perhaps, as regards the town of 
Wilmington, was the battle of Moore's Creek, which occurred about eighteen miles from 
the city, where the county bridge now crosses that stream. It was fought on the 27th 
of February, 1776, between the Scotch Tories, under Brigadier General McDonald, 
and a small body of patriot Whigs, under Colonels Caswell and Lillington. The Tories 
were on their way to Wilmington to effect a junction with Sir Peter Parker and Major- 
General Sir Henry CUnton, who arrived in Cape Fear with a military and naval arma- 
ment, on April 18th, 1776. The Tories were completely routed with great loss of both 
men and arms. The victory was an exceedingly important one, for the reason that it 
entirelv broke up an intended British campaign in North Carolina. Clinton, being 
sorely disappointed at the result, and despairing of obtaining a foot-hold in the Cape 
Fear section, after landing with a part of his troops and devastating a portion of Bruns- 
wick County, re-embarked and sailed for Charleston on the 4th of June. 

In 1780 the town of Wilmington became one of the military posts of the British 
army in America, and a dwelling house at the corner of Third and Market streets was 
used as the headquarters of Lord Cornwallis during the occupancy of the town by the 
British. The enclosure around the graveyard of St. James Church was removed, the edi- 
fice stripped of its pews and other furniture, and converted first into a hospital, next 
into a block-house for defence against the Americans, and last into a riding school for 
the dragoons of Tarleton. This old and historic church could lay no claims in those 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 17 

days to architectural beauty. It was built of brick, and extended thirty feet into what 
is now Market street — standing about fifty yards east of the site of the present edifice. 

During the Revolutionary period the history of the town became blended with the 
records of the common country, and we hasten on. 

During the period extending from the close of the Revolution to the second war 
with Great Britain, the people of Wilmington and its vicinity were distinguished for 
gaity, cordiaHty, generosity and sociability. Many opulent planters made the town 
their residence for a part of the year. Men of leisure, in conjunction with gentlemen 
of the liberal professions, moderated and refined the spirit of trade, and gave an elevated 
tone to society. The woods furnished game in abundance, and the river and neigh- 
boring ocean many varieties of fish. Racing was greatly indulged in, and gentlemen 
prided themselves, rather upon the quality of their horses than the style of their equi- 
pages. Style was hardly considered of so much importance then as now. 

In the wars of 1812 and with Mexico, Wilmington was not behind in zeal and pa- 
triotism, and the blood of many of her sons was shed upon the heights and plains of 
Monterey, Buena Vista and Palo Alto. 

Prior to the late civil war Wilmington had become one of the most prosperous and 
wealthy cities in the South. With a safe and convenient port, the outlet of the most 
highly productive portions of this great State, her trade and commerce had grown to 
extensive proportions, and an era of unbounded prosperity was being enjoyed. But 
cruel war came again, commerce was prostrated, trade paralyzed and society complete- 
ly demoralized for the time. Every available man was needed in the Southern armies, 
and the port was blockaded by the Federal fleet. Although the State did not secede 
until the 20th of May, 1861, she had for more, than a month been committed to the 
act. The news of the bombardment and capture of Fort Sumter by the Provisional 
forces, on the 14th of April, fired the people of North Carolina with patriotic zeal, and 
fearful lest Forts Caswell and Johnston, at the mouth of Cape Fear River, should fall 
into the hands of the enemy, the young men of Wilmington rushed to arms. On the 
15th of April, Col. John L. Cantwell, then commanding the 30th regiment of the North 
Carohna militia was ordered to proceed, with the volunteer companies under his com- 
mand, to Smithville and Caswell and occupy the forts there. This order was counter- 
manded on the same day, but on the day following a final telegram was received from 
Governor EUis directing his previous order to be at once put into execution. On the 
morning of that day, therefore, four volunteer companies from this city, the Wilming- 
ton Light Infantry, Capt. Wm. L. DeRossett; the Wilmington Rifle Guards, Capt. O. 
P. Meares; the German Volunteers, Capt. C. Cornhelson, and the Cape Fear Light 
Artillery, Capt. John J. Hedrick, embarked for the forts below. This, and the almost 
simultaneous seizure of Fort Macon, in Beaufort Harbor, was the signal for the revolu- 
tion in North Carolina. It is certainly a fact worthy of note that the news of the 
secession of the State from the Federal Government, and the call upon her people to 
arm themselves, was first made known to the pioneer troops of Cape Fear upon the 
parade ground of Fort Caswell. .These four companies were the first in this section 
to take active part in the commencement of hostilities, and eventually gave to the 
war some of the most illustrious names that the South can boast. In the meantime 
troops began to assemble from all parts of the State, and the most distinguished men of 
the time offered themselves to the Executive for service. The terrific struggle between 
North and South began in earnest, and troops were rapidly advancing to the front. A 
Federal blockade was soon placed upon Southern ports, nothingbut battles were thought 
or spoken of, and commercial enterprise was looked upon as a thing of the past. 

Cape Fear River, though unmolested until near the close of the war, ere long was - 
recognized as one of the few links connecting the Confederacy with the outside world. 
The low, swift, English-built blockade runner became a frequent guest in these waters, 
and revived to some extent the dormant spirit of commercial enterprise, and the city 
began to assume some appearance of its former activity. Merchants and ship agents 
from abroad flocked to the city, railroad trains were filled with cotton and naval stores, 
either for the Government or private parties, and new buildings and warehouses were 
erected to accomodate the increasing supplies arriving here, both for exportation and for 
3 



18 WILMINGTON, PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

the Southern Army. The Army of Northern Virgmia, in 1863 and '64, drew much of 
its supplies from this source, and a large per centage of the army munitions furnished 
to the different ordnance and quartermaster departments of the Confederate States was 
received by blockade runners through this port. The importance of Wilmington as a 
post was not lost upon the Confederate Government, even as early as the first year of 
the war. Generals Gatlin, Anderson and French being successively placed in com- 
mand, new works were projected, new fortifications built and requisitions made upon 
the War Department for men and material for the construction of ttiese defences. Yet 
work was delayed by the want of energy and skill of those commanding the depart- 
ment, and it was not until November, 1862, that operations were commenced in earnest. 
In that month General W. H. C. Whiting, by order of the War Department, assumed 
command of the post and the supervision of the Cape Fear defences. Then the work 
commenced with vigor. The works at Fort Fisher were energetically pushed forward to 
completion. Smith's Island was cleared, and the foundation of Fort Holmes established. 
Fort Pender, at Smithville, was built, and soon the guns of Fort Anderson, first called 
Fort St. Philip, the last great work of the defences which fell to the Federal hands, 
frowned from the heights of Old Brunswick. No means were spared, and no labor 
was begrudged that could contribute to the defence of the river. Day by day the work 
went bravely on, new additions were constantly made to its defensive strength, until at 
length numerous guns looked forth threateningly to the sea from the five principal forts 
of the river. Torpedoes and sunken obstructions were placed in the river, batteries 
frowned from every bluff and the city itself was surrounded with a chain of entrench- 
ments. 

Of so great an importance to the Confederacy, and one of its chief strongholds, it 
appears strange that Wilmington should have escaped attack until during the last year 
of the war. The nature of the coast and the known strength and durability of the 
fortifications were enough, it seems, to deter the hazard of an attempt until December 
23d, 1864. On that day, memorable for all time, the Federal fleet appeared in the off- 
ing opposite Fort Fisher, and at about two o'clock that night, Butler's Yankee Toy, the 
powder boat, was exploded near the works with no other result than that of affording 
the Confederates a gratuitous display of fire-works. The next day the Federal fleet, 
numbering fifty-two vessels, was ranged in line of battle opposite the fort, and at about 
noon opened a terrific bombardment. The fort replied slowly but steadily, until after 
an uninterrupted contest of five hours, the fleet retired. On the next day the bombard- 
ment was resumed with redoubled vigor, and with a force up to that time unprecedented 
in the history of the world. Shot and shell were literally hurled in an almost solid mass 
at the fort, and the air was filled with flying fragments. The gallant defenders held 
manfully to their posts and hurled defiance back. In the midst of the fight a landing 
was effected by the enemy at Anderson Battery, at the head of the Sound, and they ad- 
vanced to attack the fort. Their assault was assisted by an increase of fire from the 
fleet, which endeavored to prevent the Confederates from manning the parapet to resist 
the attack. Gen. Whiting and Col. Lamb, who were in command of the fort, were 
the first at the post of danger, and encouraged by their brave example, the men swarmed 
to the parapet, and the enemy were driven back to their entrenchments. That night 
the entire fleet was withdrawn. Shortly afterwards the land forces also re-embarked on 
their transports, and the Federal force left for the North, defeated. Over twenty thou- 
sand shot and shell had been expended by the fleet in their futile attempt to reduce the 
fort. The strength of Fort Fisher, as a defensive work, was vastly overrated by the 
Federal commanders, and it could easily have been taken by Butler at this time if a 
concentrated effort had been made. Its chief value to the Confederacy lay in the aid 
it afforded blockade runners in entering or leaving the port. We must now pass over 
many acts of heroism on the part of the brave detenders of Fort Fisher, the memory 
of which will forever be cherished in the fond recollections of this people, and can only 
mention that litde band of boys, yet children, who constituted the only defence of their 
mothers and sisters in Wilmington at this time, who alone stood guard over the pris- 
oners at this city on the night of the great bombardment, and who were "as true 
to the trust confided to them as if their leader had numbered fifty instead of fifteen 
years." 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 19 

The fatal ti.ne soon came, however, when Fort Fisher was doomed to fall, and 
when the Confederacy was destined to receive a vital blow, from the effects of which 
it never recovered. Suddenly and without warning the Federal fleet again appeared 
before Fisher on the 13th of January, 1865, Troops were landed at Anderson Battery, 
and when Gen. Hoke arrived later in the day with his division, he found the line of 
the enemy confronting him, stretched across the entire peninsula from ocean to river. 
At the first news of the intended attack. Gen. Whiting had hurried to the assistance of 
Col. Lamb, and these two heroes of the first great battle made vigorous prep iration for 
a second defence. Although not ex ictly in the nature of a surprise, the attack came 
at a most inauspicious moment. Forts Fisher, Caswell, Anderson, Pender and Holmes, 
near the mouth of the river, and comprising the defensive strength of the Cape Fear, 
had become almost entirely stripped of troops for action at other points, and the divis- 
ion under Gen. Hoke was then stationed at or near Wilmington, but between Fisher 
and Wilmington there intervened some twenty miles of sandy, tedious road. At about 
two o'clock on the morning of the 13th, Hoke's command left for the tort, but arrived 
too late to prevent the landing of the troops. In the meantime Gen. Whiting had left 
for the front. About noon on the 13th the fleet opened fire upon the fort, and a more 
terrific and terrible bombardment than the first one ensued. The eneriiy's object was 
plainly apparent. It was their intention to cripple the fort as much as possible by the 
fire of the fleet, and to make easy a projected assault by the land forces. Success re- 
warded their efforts. So terrible was the fire of shot and shell that it was almost im- 
possible to man the guns of the fort, and the garrison were driven to the bomb-proofs 
and kept closely confined there. From noon on the 13th until three o'clock on the 
afternoon of the 15th, a period of fifty-one hours, the terrific bombardment was con- 
tinued without intermission. At the last nimed hour the fire of the fleet was suddenly 
raised, and the land forces were discerned moving to the assiult of the fort. The as- 
sault was mide in two columns, each advancing to different points of attack. The first 
nnmbered about two thousand anl wis composed of sailors and mirines, who moved 
up the line of the sea beach, while the other, numbering four tho isand, charged along 
the bank of the river, and made their attack on the left land flank of the fort. The 
first column mentioned vvas easily driven back, and made no second attempt. The sec- 
ond was temporarily checked in its advance, but upon being strengthened by reinforce- 
ments, again advanced and succeeded in entering the fort. But Fort Fisher did not 
even then yield witho.it a find and desperate struggle. The Confederates fell back in 
disorder, but not in confusion, and stubbornly contested every foot of the enemy's ad- 
vance. From traverse to traverse they, retreating, fought the overwhelming force of 
numbers, driving them back. The fight was continued in this way for six hours, until 
at length the last traverse was torn from the hands of these brave defenders, and they 
were forced beyond the enclosure of the tort. Thus was Fort Fisher captured — it never 
surrendered. 

The conflict ceased, and at about midnight, there being no means of escape to the 
main land, Gen. Whiting was compelled to surrender his command as prisoners of war. 
In this engagement the loss of the Confederates although severe, was not nearly so large 
as that of the Federals. The losses of the former amounted to two hundred and fifty 
killed, wounded and missing, while the latter lost over eight hundred. So Fort Fisher 
fell, and on the same night the works south of it, and commanding Main Bar, consist- 
ing of Forts Caswell, Holmes and Pender, were destroyed and abandoned, and their 
garrisons removed to Fort Anderson. It was plain to be seen that Wilmington must 
eventually fall into the hands of the enemy. 

But Fort Anderson, on the site of the ancient city of Brunswick, still defiantly 
commanded the approach to the city. The river vvas filled with torpedoes and sunken 
obstructions, and Gen Hoke was strongly entrenched between the advancing army and 
Wilmington. On the 17th of February a portion of the Federal fleet steamed up the 
river and commenced the bombardment of Fort Anderson. The fire was returned as 
slowly and deliberately as if the garrison were at target practice. In the meantime 
Gen. Schofield had marched up from Smithville with a land force of eight thousand 
men, to co-operate with the fleet in the reduction of the fort. He was confronted by 
Hagood's brigade, which had been thrown over by Hoke to the assistance of the fort, 



20 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

and which was strongly entrenched, presenting an effectual barrier to his advance. 
Hagood's left rested on the fort and his right on Orton Mill Pond. Finding his path 
so completely obstructed, Schofield made a detour to his left around the pond, which 
was about nine miles in circumference, with the intention of striking Hagood on the 
flank. This movement could not be opposed with the small force on hand, and the 
immediate evacuation of Anderson became an imperative necessity. On Sunday, the 
19th, before daylight, the guns were spiked and the garrison quietly withdrew. This 
fort had been considered almost impregnable, and it has been often contended that, if 
a sufficient land force had been available to protect its rear, it could never have been 
taken. As it was, the bombardment left it comparatively uninjured. The garrison 
retreated rapidly, and paused the same day at Town Creek, where a few entrenchments 
had been hastily thrown up. On the next day the line of retreat was resumed, and that 
night they reached Wilmington. On the following day the advance of the Federals 
could be plainly seen marching along the causeway on Eagle's Island, but a shell fired 
from the corner of Front and Market streets' informed them that the defenders of An- 
derson were in the city, and suddenly checked their onward march to take possession, 
which they had supposed an easy undertaking. They again endeavored to advance, 
but a few more shell drove them back in confusion. Skirmishers were then sent forward 
by both sides. 

In the meantime, as soon as Anderson had been evacuated, Hoke had gradually 
fallen back upon the city, but still presenting a defiant front. On the mornmg of the 
21st he reached Wilmington and effected a junction with Hagood and Hedrick. Then 
it was that Wilmington was evacuated, the enemy entering the next day, and with it 
expired the most sanguine hopes of the final success of the Confederate cause. 

We reluctantly pass over many of the incidents connected with the occupation of 
the city by the Federal forces, nor would it serve any purpose to relate many of the 
events then transpiring. There is one incident of the Federal occupation, however, 
the actors in which are still living, which viewed in any light reflects neither reputation 
or credit upon the officers in command. The Rev. Dr. Watson, who was at the time 
rector of the church of St. James, was ordered by Federal authority to offer prayer in 
the church service for the President of the United States, instead of the President of 
the Confederate States. Feeling that he had no canonical right to do so, Dr. Watson 
refused, whereupon the keys of the church were seized by order of Major-General 
Schofield. Subsequently Brigadier- General Hawley — who is now a United States Sen- 
ator from Connecticut — ordered that the edifice itself be seized and converted into a 
hospital. Members of its congregation, now living, begged him to spare their be- 
loved church and offered him any number of more suitable and convenient places 
for the purpose. But he was inexorable and commanded a force of twenty-five negro 
soldiers, in charge of a negro officer, to proceed to the building with pick-axes and tear 
out the pews and other furniture. His orders were obeyed, the pews were thrown 
into the street by negroes, and for the second time in its existence the historic and ven- 
erable church of St. James was turned into a military hospital. 

Hawley is a North Carolinian by birth, having been born in Robeson County, but 
while an infant his parents removed to that land of morality — Connecticut. During his 
occupation of this city he boastingly averred that he had returned to his native State to 
teach the people "correct principles." The conduct of this moral educator of the 
people would certainly seem to indicate that during his sojourn in Connecticut he had 
acquired peculiar notions as to what constituted correctness of principle, and that a 
preliminary step in this branch of knowledge consisted in the wanton and uncalled for 
desecration of a house of God. We are free to confess that, to those not so enlightened 
as Senator Hawley, his conduct on the occasion we have mentioned would appear to in- 
dicate a most unfortunate ignorance of the ordinary decencies of life and an entire absence 
of reverence for the Almighty. 

Before drawing the curtain upon the events of the war, we may be pardoned a 
few words in regard to the swift and silent blockade runners, whose incomings and out- 
goings gave to Wilmington so much of commercial importance during 1863 and '64. 
The blockade runners were English steamers built more for speed than carrying capacity. 
They were painted a French gray or lead color, which blended with the atmosphere so 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 21 

as to make detection extremely difficult. They carried a pilot and signal officer, and 
when ready to leave port, dropped down the river near the mouth of the inlet, waiting 
for a dark night to slip out. The guns of Fort Fisher commanded the entrance to the 
harbor, and no vessels could pass in or out without the knowledge of those within the 
fort. Signals were consequently arranged, and an officer placed on board each ship in 
control of that branch of the service, and by such means those in command of the fort 
could easily distinguish friend from foe. In running into the harbor the same precau- 
tions were necessary. When a runner approached the fort, which was of course always 
at night, the signal officer on board displayed a peculiar light and made a certain sig- 
nal, which was answered by the fort, and she then passed in without molestation. The 
blockading fleet lay some four or five miles distant from the fort, and the danger of run- 
ning in or out was the risk of capture by them. In making the passage the ship 
displayed no light, and the most rigid discipline was enforced. It frequently happened 
that in the darkness they ran so near to the blockading fleet as to be heard by them, the 
noise of the wheel betraying their presence. Rockets would immediately be sent up 
and a fire opened. If coming m, a dash was then made to get under the guns of the 
fort; if going out, all steam was raised and a chase of the most exciting character began, 
the ships dashing through the water at a tremendous rate, the blockader firing continu- 
ally at the fleeing runner, hoping by a well directed shot to disable her, and the latter 
using every means that skill and ingenuity could suggest to effect her escape. A great 
portion of the cargo was frequently thrown overboard to avoid capture, and instances 
were not infrequent when large amounts in gold, which were shipped out for foreign 
purchases were tossed into the sea when escape became impossible. In the early days 
of blockade-running the ships engaged were rarely captured, as they were much faster 
than the vessels of the blockading fleet, having been built expressly for the business, 
but very soon ships equally fast were obtained by the Federal Government, rendering 
escape more difficult. It is remarkable, when the risk attending the running is consid- 
ered, that so little damage should have been done to life and property. There was but 
one life lost during the entire time, and but very few were injured. Some vessels were 
run upon the beach to prevent capture, but none were sunk outright by the blockading 
fleet, and individual acts of heroism were frequent. 

It is greatly to be regretted diat a correct record has not been preserved of the 
blockade steamers and their operations in Cape Fear River during the four years of the 
war, and any account of the same that can now be given is but partially correct. From 
private memoranda the following figures are given and may be relied upon as being 
substantially correct: 

The number of vessels from May the 20th, 1863, to December 31st, 1864, was 
about 260; prior to May 20th, 1863, 15, and after December 31, 1864, 10, mak- 
ing a grand total of 285. There is no record extant of the imports and exports during 
that period. 

After the close of the war, and upon the reopening of the port, the most gloomy 
anticipations as to the future were indulged. Little cotton and scarcely any turpen- 
tine had been produced during the war, and it was generally supposed that home manu- 
facture and foreign shipment had exhausted the last bale and barrel of each. But as 
soon as it was ascertained that shipments could be made North with perfect security, 
the market became flooded with both cotton and naval stores, commerce suddenly re- 
vived and Wilmington began to rise again to commercial importance in the maritime 
world. A direct foreign trade began to be established and shipments were made to the 
principal points in Europe, the West Indies and South America. 

On the 20th of February, 1866, the act incorporating Wilmington into a city was 
ratified by the Legislature, and on Thursday, the 8th day of March, it was accepted by 
the citizens through the ballot-box. On the same day Hon. A, H. Van Bokkelen was 
elected the first Mayor of the City of Wilmington, and on the 10th day of March he 
entered upon the duties of his office. At the same election S. D. Wallace, R. J. Jones, 
James G. Burr, James H. Ryan, W. H. Lippitt, O. G. Parsley, A. E. Hall and Wm. 
A. Wright were chosen Aldermen. From this time to the present the City of Wilming- 
ton has steadily and surely progressed in population, wealth and commercial importance, 



22 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

and, in proportion to her population, is to-day beyond all question the most prosperous 
city in the South. 

We have thus, with feeble pen, briefly, but to some purpose we may hope, traced 
the history of the Cape Fear region down to a period within the recollection of all. 
Through the terrible and trying ordeal of war this city has bravely passed, coming forth 
like iron from the furnace strengthened and purified, and to day her diversified in- 
dustries give forth those sounds of prosperity and general well-being which quicken the 
pulse of a nation and prolong the life of a republic. But in the prosperity of to-day 
may the memory of the glorious past be ever fondly cherished, and as the ancients were 
wont to twine the dark wreath of the cypress with the amaranthus and the rose, so let 
us join the memory of days gone by with the golden opportunities of the present and 
the briUiant promise of the future. 



WILMINGTON IN 1834. 



No one can visit the city of Wilmington to-day and fail to be impressed with the 
many signs and indications of growing wealth and prosperity which abound on every 
hand. Here will be found all public buildings and institutions usual to a commercial 
city of metropolitan proportions, as for instance a U. S. Custom House, U. S. Marine 
Hospital, U. S. Signal Service station, Seamen's Home and Bethel, a city hospital, 
eight newspaper publications, thirty-eight churches and twenty eight public and private 
schools. 

The city is in latitude 34° 12' and in longitude 77° 6'. It is situated upon both 
sides of Cape Fear River, thirty miles from the Atlantic Ocean, and has over three 
miles of river front. It is a port of entry, having a large commerce, both foreign and 
coast-wise. Vessels drawing eighteen feet of water can readily reach the ocean. The 
city is located on a rolling site, which renders drainage easy, and in this regard certain- 
ly occupies a most ad "♦^•^geous position. The situation of the city as regards health- 
fulness is a most excelleni ^ne, the average rate of mortality being much below that of 
other seaports on the Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico. By the reports of the National 
Board of Health for the year 1881, the following were the number of deaths to each 
one thousand of the white population in the following cities: Wilmington, N. C, 15.9; 
Philadelphia, 22.6; Boston, 25.9; Norfolk, 27.2; Savannah, 29.2; Charleston, 29.5, 
New York, 31.7, and Baltimore, by a report from another source for 1880, 27.1. At 
the last census Wilmington had a population of 17,350, which has since rapidlyincreased, 
and is now estimated at from 20,000 to 21,000. During the last decade the aggregate 
increase of population in Wilmington was in excess of that of Charleston and Savan- 
nah, or Norfolk and Portsmouth combined, and while the per centage of increase in 
New Orleans was only .13, in Wilmington it was .29. 

The city limits extend from north to south 2^ miles, and from east to west lys 
miles, comprising a total area of about 2,400 acres. The general contour of the city 
is that of an elevated sand ridge, running parallel with the river, intersected with dunes 
and rivulets emptying into the river and adjacent streams. The Cape Fear River flows 
past the western front of the city, and its branches and tributaries almost encompass it. 

The advantages and attractions of VVilmington as a place of residence are sur- 
passed by no city of equal population in the Union. The climate is delightful, the 
society is cultivated and refined, educational facilities are both excellent and abundant, 
and the city is well provided with churches, whose pulpits are filled by pastors of most 
excellent abilities, who are, in every instance, well supported by large congregations. 



WlLMlNGtON— l>ASt, PRESENt AND PtJTWRE. 23 



Some of the church edifices are remarkably fine specimens of architecture and will 
compare favorably with those of any city in the Union. In the foUowmg pages we will 
speak of the leading institutions and industries of the city in detail, and feel assured 
that a careful consideration of the facts presented will convince our readers that the fu- 
ture of the city is no longer a matter of speculation, and that the position of Wilming- 
ton as one of the greatest trade centers of the South is established beyond the possibility 
of a doubt. The city is growing rapidly and is already one of the most important 
commercial points in the country. As the metropoHs of a great State, that is destined 
in a few years to take a front rank among her sister States, the future of the city is 
assured, and she is unquestionably entering upon an era of permanent prosperity. 



CITY GOVERNMENT. 



As herein-before stated, the first charter was granted to'the Town of Wilmington in 
1739. The city charter was granted in 1866 by an act of the General Assembly, passed 
February 1st. Since its incorporation as a city the following- named gentlemen have 
officiated as Mayor : 

A. H. VanBokkelen, elected in March, 1866. 

John Dawson, elected in January, 1867. 

Joseph H. Neff, appointed by the Provisional Governor of the State in July, 1868, 
and elected in January, 1869. 

S. N. Martin, elected in January, 1870. 

James Wilson, elected in May, 1872. 

W. P. Canaday, elected in May, 1873. 

John Dawson, elected in June, 1877, and resigned in February, 1878. 

S. H. Fishblate, elected in February, 1878. 

W. L. Smith, elected in March, 1881. 

E. D. Hall, elected in March, 1883. 

The present city government is composed of a Board of Aldermen and Board of 
Audit and Finance. The city is divided into five wards, which uife represented by ten 
Aldermen — two from each ward — from which number one is elected Mayor to serve for 
a term of two years. 

The present Board of Aldermen is composed of the following named gentlemen : 
Hon. E. D. Hall, Mayor, and Messrs. G. J. Boney, Samuel Bear, John L. Dudley, 
S. H. Fishblate, Wm. L. DeRossett, Wm. H. Chadbourn, Isham Sweat, John J. Geyer 
and Valentine Howe. 

The bonded debt of the city is $567,700, which was mainly contracted for railroad 
subscriptions, a city hall building and market house. A sinking fund was established 
in 1880 for the purpose of liquidating the public debt, and a regular tax levy has been 
made each year for that purpose. Last year the tax was eighteen cents on the one 
hundred dollars. The sinking fund now amounts to $53,437.86. The tax levy this 
year was 1^ cents on real and personal property, which, together with the license tax, 
will produce a revenue of about $125,000. 

The assessed value of real estate in the city is $3,347,010, and of personal prop- 
erty $1,801,091. 

THE BOARD OF AUDIT AND FINANCE, 

As a co-ordinate and most important branch of the city government, has brought 
about a most fortunate and substantial improvement in the city's financial affairs, and 
should receive that consideration to which the intelligent efforts of its members entitle 



24 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

it. This Board was created by act of the General Assembly, passed February 28th, 
1877, and its members are appointed by the Governor for a term of two years. It is at 
present composed of the following gentlemen : 

R. G. Jones, Chairman and Commissioner of the Sinking Fund, and Messrs. 
William Calder, W. R. Kenan, O. A. Wiggins and John L. McEachern. Capt. John 
Cowan is the Clerk of the Board. 

The Board holds regular meetings twice every month, or oftener, if they deem it 
necessary, of which public notice is given, and at which all claims or demands against 
the city must be presented, verified by the affidavit of the claimant or his agent. The 
Chairman of the Board is also ex officio the Commissioner of the Sinking Fund of the 
city. 

We make the following extracts from the act establishing the Board, as giving an 
idea of the extent and importance of their duties and responsibilities : 

"Sec. 5. It shall be the duty of said Board to audit and pass upon the validity of 
all claims and demands against the City of Wilmington, and no claim or demand against 
said city shall be paid by the Treasurer of said city, or by any other person, out of any 
funds belonging to said city, until the same has been duly audited and approved by 
said Board, and a warrant, signed by the Chairman and Clerk, given for the payment 
of the same. All claims, demands and accounts presented to said Board to be audited, 
shall be treated and proceeded with in all respects as is provided in section twelve, 
chapter twenty-seven of Battle's Revisal, in reference to claims or accounts against coun- 
ties. Any member of said Board who shall knowingly vote to allow any false, fraudu- 
lent or untrue claim or demand against said city, shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor, 
and upon conviction, shall be punished by a fine of not less than five hundred dollars, 
and by imprisonment for not less than one year. 

"Sec. 6. No ordinance of the Board of Aldermen of said city, levying any tax 
whatever, shall be valid or of any effect, unless an estimate and the rate of assessment 
of the taxes so to be levied, shall be first submitted to said Board of Audit and Finance, 
and approved by at least three of its members. The estimates aforesaid shall specify 
the amount required during the next coming fiscal year to pay interest on the debt of 
said city, and to provide a sinking fund for its ultimate payment, and the amount which 
will be required, as nearly as can be ascertained, to meet the necessary expenditures 
for the several departments of the city government, and the amounts to be expended 
under said estimates shall be apportioned by said Board of Audit and Finance, accord- 
ing to the specification accompanying the same, among the several departments of the 
city, of which apportionment a copy shall be delivered to the Clerk and Treasurer of 
said city. All warrants which may be drawn on account of any duly audited claim 
or demand, shall specify the particular fund from which the same is to be paid, and no 
such warrant shall be paid from any other fund, than the one designated therein; and 
if any such warrant shall be paid, in violation of this provision, or if any claim against 
said city shall be paid or be received on account of any indebtedness to said city, be- 
fore a proper warrant for the same has been issued, the Treasurer of said citv, or any 
other person paying the same out of any funds belonging to said city, shall be liable for 
the amount so paid, and shall be deemed guilt) of a misdemeanor. 

"Sec. 7. The said Board of Audit and Finance shall, once in every three months, 
cause to be posted at the Court House, and ten other public places in said city, a state- 
ment of all claims and demands against said city, audited by said Board, giving the re- 
spective amounts claimed and allowed, the character of said claim and the name of the 
claimant. 

"Sec. 8. It shall be the duty of said Board of Audit and Finance, and it shall 
have exclusive power to fix the salaries or other compensation of all officers and em- 
ployes of said city, and to pass upon and approve the official bonds of such officers ; 
and no contract, even for the necessary expenses of said city, nor any bond, note or 
other obligation in behalf of said city, shall be valid or of any effect, unless the same 
be approved by said Board, and such approval be endorsed thereon." 

As showing the remarkably healthy and satisfactory condition of the Sinking Fund, 
we give in full the report of the Commissioner, Richard J. Jones, Esq., of date Janu- 
ary 2d, 1883: 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 25 

OFFICE BOARD OF AUDIT AND FINANCE, 

Wilmington, N. C, January 2d, 1883. 

To the Honorable^ tht Mayor and Aldermen, City of Wilmington : 

Gentlemen: — As required by law, I herewith submit statement, showing the con- 
dition of the Sinking Fund of your city : 

securities held. 

Of Matured Bonds $ 1,700 

Of Bonds Maturing- February 1st, 1892 3,000 

" " " January 1st, 1897 3,700 

January 1st, 1899 1,000 

" " " January 1st, 1901 10,000 

" " " January 1st, 1904 ... 25,000 

Cash Uninvested 29 



Total $44,529 

The value of maintaining this fund as an important factor in sustaining our city 
credit, is fully recognized by every one who deals in our city securities, or is at all inter- 
ested in the good faith of the city toward its creditors, as it forms a part of the contract 
under which our bonds were issued. For it must be borne in mind that the several acts 
of the Legislature authorizing the city to issue bonds, provided for the creation and 
maintenance of a Sinking Fund for their gradual payment. But it was not until the 
creation of the Board of Audit and Finance — whose Chairman was made ex officio Com- 
missioner of the Sinking Fund — that any attention was ever given to the subject. Hence, 
in 1877, when the Board of Audit and Finance was organized, its Chairman found no 
such fund in existence. While the pressing demands upon the City Treasury — which 
was then laboring under the heavy burden of over a hundred thousand dollars past due 
indebtedness, gave no encouraging prospects of establishing one — yet the law required it 
should be done, and the necessary machinery was set to work by tax assessment for 
that purpose. As the money is collected and paid over to the Commissioner of the 
Sinkmg Fund, it is invested in the City Bonds, which are registered and stamped — 
both bonds and coupons — "Sinking Fund, City of Wilmington," and now formTa 
permanent fund, the interest of which is invested semi-annually. That it has grown to 
its present proportions, is certainly a matter for congratulation, and, if prudently man- 
aged, it will go on increasing until our bonded debt is entirely absorbed by it, while it 
gives assurance meanwhile to our creditors that the city is mindful of its obligations, 
and is preparing to meet them. 

RICHARD J. JONES, 

Commissioner Sinking I^und. 

The bonded indebtedness of the city, including the Market House Bonds, togeth- 
er with the amount belonging to the Sinking Fund, as per last semi-annual report of 
Commissioner Jones, made January 14th, 1884, will be found in the following figures: 

CITY INDEBTEDNESS. 

Funding 8 per cent, bonds due in 1887 $130,800 

8 " •' " 1888 23,600 

8 " " " 1889 5,500 

Ma. 8 " " " 1892 100,000 

Funding 6 " " " 1897 49,800 

6 " " " 1899 50,000 

6 " " " 1901 50,000 

6 " " " 1904 50,000 

6 " " " 1910 80,000 

Market House 6 per cent, notes due in 1902 30,000 

Total Bonded Indebtedness $569,700 

4 



26 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 



REPORT OF THE COMMISSIONER OF THE SINKING FUND, JANUARY 14, 1884. 

4 city bonds due in 1887 $ 400.00 

1889 1,00000 

1892 3.500.00 

1897 3,700.00 

1899 1.000.00 

1901 10,000.00 

1904 25,000.00 

1910 3,000.00 



97 bonds, amounting to $47,600.00 

Cash invested 5,837.86 



Total amount Sinking Fund $53,437.86 

Increase since last report 8,908.56 

This is a most creditable showing for the Board, and sufficiently attests the efficien- 
cy and intelligence with which they manage the affairs entrusted to their care and direc- 
tion. The city six per cent, bonds are now worth par and accrued interest, and there 
are none for sale at those figures. 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE, 



27 



COUNTY GOVERNMENT. 



The administration of the county affairs is vested in five commissioners, who are 
elected by the Board of Magistrates of the county for the term of two years, and are 
styled "The Board of Commissioners for the County of New Hanover." They hold 
their meetings on the first Monday of each month, and are paid $2.00 per day for their 
services. The following gentlemen constitute the present Board : 

D. G. Worth, Chairman ; Horace A. Bagg, Roger Moore, James A. Montgomery 
and E. L. Pearce. 

The following is the annual statement of the Board of Commissioners for the 
County of New Hanover, for the fiscal year beginning the 1st day of December, 1882, 
and ending the 30th day of November, 1883, omitting the individual payments : 

TREASURER'S REPORT. 

General Fund Account, New Hanover County in Account with Owen Bumey, Treasurer, from De- 
cember 1st, 1882, to November 30th, 1883. 
Dr. Cr. 



ToAm'tpaid Warrants. .|24,556 92 

" " " Bonds 9,700 00 

" " " Coupons.... 1,050 00 
" " " Com'sions.. 809 64 

Balance $19,969 41 



$56,085 97 



By Balance Dec. 1st, 1882 
" " from Sp'l Fund 
" S. H. Manning, Sheriff, 
General Tax, 1882, $ 8,826 64 

By S. H. Manning, Sheriff, 
General Tax, 1883, 14,150 00 

By S. H. Manning, Sheriff, 
Schedule B. Tax, 5,026 00 

By S. H. Manning, Sheriff, 
Jury Tax 

By J. E. Sampson, Register, 
Marriage License Tax. . . 

By J. E. Sampson, Jail 
Fees 

By Pender County Insane. . 

By Tax on property pur- 
chased by County. .. . 

By sale of sundry articles . 

By Ara't from S. H. Man- 
ning 

By Am't from Craig's Bond 



$26,475 83 
145 65 



59 33 
154 31 



14 00 
60 30 




054 00 
53 91 




16 00 

50 00 $29,464 49 




$56,085 97 



County Treasurer's Report of Receipts and Disbursements of School Fund from December 1st, 

1882, to November 30th, 1883. 



DISBURSEMENTS. 

Paid Teachers of Schools for Whites. .$ 3,937 52 

" " Colored.. 5,338 52 

" for School Houses (White) 430 18 

" " " (Colored) .... 577 68 

" County Supenntendent 272 00 

" Register of Deeds 150 00 

" Treasurer's Commissions 301 69 



Total Disbursements $11,007 59 

Balance 9,428 05 

$20,435 64 



RECEIPTS. 

Balance on hand as per last report $ 7,006 78 

Rec'd Gen'l Property School Tax. . . . 6,315 34 
" " State and County Poll Tax, 

1883 2,982 91 

Rec'd from Liquor Licenses 3,819 00 

" Auctioneers 19 89 

" " Fines, Forfeitures and Pen- 
alties 291 72 



$20,435 64 



28 



WILMINGTON PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 



RECAPITULATION. 



CRIMINAL COURT. 

Judge $2,500 00 

Clerk 885 20 

Solicitor 212 00 

Sheriff 664 41 

Jurors 1,858 30 

Witnesses 508 98 



SUPERIOR COURT. 



Clerk.. 
Sheriff. 
Jurors. 



119 69 
23 30 

773 10 



Attorney 

Commissioners . 
Coroner 



3,628 89 



916 09 
530 00 
831 90 
197 75 



Constables 

Justices of Peace 

Register of Deeds 

Advertising 

Roads and Bridges 

Clerks of other counties 

Elections 

Clk. Aud. Com. Janitor, Gas, Ice, etc. 

Poor House 

Out Door Poor 

Jail 



Public Buildings 

Stationery and Printing. . . 
Tax Listing and Assessmg. 

Tax Remitted 

Real Estate 

Superintendent of Health . 
Hospital 



230 61 

592 56 

429 69 

83 75 

131 99 

21 00 

6 50 

1,239 58 

2,696 06 

2,396 64 

. 1,650 45 

563 11 

343 73 

. 1,338 00 

33 14 

. 1,000 00 

900 00 

, 1,353 49 

$24,114 93 



Current Expenses proper of County $21,761 44 

County Proportionate part of Expenses of City Hospital 1,353 49 

Purchase of Old Fair Ground Tract. 1,000 00 



$24,114 93 



Current Expenses of County for 1882 $25,042 49 

" 1881 29,226 94 

" 1880 24,735 61 

" 1879 31,546 95 

" 1878 41,037 37 

BONDED DEBT. 

Bonded debt due March, 1887 $6,100 00 

To meet this debt there is on Certificate of Deposit, bearing 4 per cent, interest, 

First National Bank 6.500 00 

Floating debt 0,000 00 



TAX LEVY OF 1883. 



State Tax on Property S7% 

County Tax on Property 373^ 



Total. 



75 



State Tax on Poll $1 12}4 

County Tax on Poll 1 12)^ 



Total. 



.$2 25 



AMUONT DUE EACH SCHOOL DISTRICT. 



District No. 1, White $ 246 



" 2, 
" 3, 
" 4, 
" 5, 
" 6, 



1,722 26 

37 63 

90 46 

247 09 

22 73 



District No. 1, Colored $4,988 50 



944 89 


101 10 


283 47 


337 66 


131 29 



Total White $2,396 85 Total Colored $6,786 91 

Total White 2,396 85 

Balance General School Fund 244 29 

$9,428 05 



B. G. WORTH, Chairman, 
H. A. BAGG, 
ROGER MOORE, 



Auditing Committee. 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 29 



EDUCATIONAL ADVANTAGES. 



In recording the advantages possessed by the City of Wilmington as a commercial, 
manufacturing and business center, the fact should not be overlooked that the city has 
kept fully up with the times in regard to educational matters. It is not necessary, nor 
does space permit us, to enter into a detailed description of each of the twenty-eight 
public and private institutions in the city, and we content ourselves with stating what 
is known to be the fact — that they are fully equal in most respects to those of other 
Southern cities. 

Among the individual and denominational schools, academies, (fee, the following, 
however, are worthy of mention : Academy of Incarnation, 223 and 225 S. Fourth 
street, Sister Mary Augustine, Superior; Messrs. Burr & James, 310 Market; Cape 
Fear Militiry, 105 N. Fourth; Annie J. Hart, 16 N. Third; James H. Lane, 410 Red 
Cross; Rev. Daniel Morelle, English and classical, 420 Orange; Mrs. R. A. Murray, 
401 Market; New Hampshire Memorial Institute, 318,-324 S. Seventh, Rev J. M. 
Thrall, Principal; St. Barnabas, 421 Swan, Fannie S. Jackson, Principal ; St. Joseph's 
Male Academy, 220 S. Fifth. 

The people of Wilmington have most excellent reason to congratulate themselves 
upon the prosperous and flourishing condition of their 

PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM, 

A condition of aifairs for which they are in a large measure indebted to Mr. M. C. S. 
Noble, under whose supervision and direction the schools have reached a most gratify- 
ing standard of excellence. Elementary education is now within the reach of all, and 
a very general disposition is noticeable among all classes to avail themselves of this 
privilege. 

The management of the common schools is in the hands of five County Commis- 
missioners, who form the County Board of Education, and appoint three school com- 
mitteemen for each District, and the School Committee, in turn, appoint teachers, and 
oversee the general management of the schools. The County Superintendent is ap- 
pointed by the Board of the Justices of the Peace. 

" The system, surrounded in this manner, by all the safeguards necessary to pro- 
tect both the interersts of the children and those of the tax-payer, works well in this 
city." 

We make the following extracts from Mr. Sprunt's work, published in April, 1883, 
and to which we have elsewhere alluded : 

"Wilmington Township, which is coextensive with the City of Wilmington, has 
two school districts, in each of which is one for the whites and one for the blacks. 

District (No. 1), white, lies north of Market street. 
" (No. 2), white, lies south of Market street. 
" (No. 1), black, lies north of Chestnut street. 
" (No. 2), black, lies South of Chestnut street. 

Hemenway Graded School, District No. 1, white race, is on Fourth street, between 
Red Cross and Campbell 

Peabody Graded School, District No. 1, colored race, is on Fifth, between Red 
Cross and Campbell streets. 

Union Graded School, District No 2, white race, is on Sixth, between Nun and 
Church streets. 

Williston Graded School, District No. 2, colored race, is on Seventh, between 
Ann and Nun street. 



30 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

Number of children of school age in District No 1, white 1,009 

Number of children of school age in District No. 2, white 943 

Total 1,952 

Amount apportioned $3,904 

Number of children of school age in District No. 1, colored 1,606 

Number of children of school age in District No. 2, colored 1,510 

Total 3,116 

Amount apportioned $6,232 

Average daily attendance in white schools about 300 

" " in colored schools about . 425 

Number of teachers in white schools 8 

" " in colored schools 12 

In a speech by Senator Blair, of New Hampshire, June 13, 1882, allusion was 
made to the disproportionate attendance of school children in North Carolina to the 
population, in the following language : " Wilmington, North Carolina, has an enroll- 
ment of 866, or 18 per cent., while 82 per cent, of the children of that city would ap- 
pear to be without means of public education." This reflects unjustly upon our public 
school system. 

"The school laws of Massachusetts require the attendance of children between the 
ages of five and fifteen years — those of North Carolina between six and twenty-one 
years. 

It is well known that the greater number of both male and female children leave 
school before they reach the age of 17 years; and, as all over that age are registered 
as attending no school, it would appear that there is a want of proper interest in the 
matter of education; whereas both sexes generally attain all the elements of an educa- 
tion at or about 17 years of age, at which time they are generally obliged to work for a 
livelihood. 

The cost of each pupil per school year in Wilmington is about $8. 50 — in New York 
City it is about $30." 



Special features of the Wilmington schools consist m the fact that they are all 
thoroughly graded, and conducted on the same general principle. The teachers are 
well qualified, and many of them have made special preparation by attending the State 
Normal School. The Principal conducts four teachers' meetings during each month — 
two for the white teachers and two for the colored teachers. At these meetings, school 
government and methods of teaching are discussed, and work for the next two weeks is 
properly assigned. While the schools are in session, the Principal goes from room to 
room, takes notes on the teacher's manner, and the decorum of the pupils, and at 
times conducts the recitation himself; and, while inspecting, forms, in a great measure, 
the subject of discussion at teachers' meetings. Occasionally, to illustrate any new 
method of instruction, the teachers are resolved into a model class, when the recitation 
is first conducted by the Principal, and afterwards by the teachers in turn. In this way 
the peculiarities of each teacher are brought to view, criticised, and then approved or 
disapproved, according as they are good or bad. 

The members of the District School Committees from time to time, in a body or 
individually, visit the schools and inspect the character of the work done. 

They pay particular attention to the most economical methods, and are careful to 
employ only thoroughly capable teachers. 

In this way, and with the aid of instructors working for a reputation, they hope to 
make the schools under their charge an honor and an ornament to the city, and an 
object of interest to visitors from abroad. 

The members of the School Committees are : 

District No. 1 — Donald McRae, Chairman; William M. Parker and Joseph E. 
Sampson. 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 31 

District No. 2 — James H. Chadbourn, Chairman; Walker Meares and John Nor- 
wood." 

UNION FREE SCHOOL. 

The question of building this public school house was first brought to the attention 
of the citizens of Wilmmgton in 1856 by Mr. John W. Barnes, Sr. A meeting was held 
and a subscription list opened, and in a short time a sufficient sum was realized to war- 
rant the erection of the building, which was finished the following winter, and denom- 
inated the "Union Free School." The first annual session was opened October 1st, 
1857. 

In the spring of the ensuing year, the "Board of Superintendents of Common 
Schools for New Hannover County, in response to a petition of a number of citi- 
zens, remodelled the town districts (then two in number), dividing each into two dis- 
tricts, and appointing new committees in the lower or southern districts (No. 2 and 58), 
in which this school was situated, whereby it would receive the benefit of the funds 
appropriated for both, and also the advantage of two co-operating committees, which 
secured its continuance until July 1st, 1863 — a period of six years. 

A free school was taught in Union School House during the winter of 1865-66, 
supported by the Soldiers' Memorial Society of Boston, Massachusetts. 

In December, 1866, INliss Amy M. Bradley came to Wilmington under the auspices 
of the American Unitarian Association and the above-named Society, and on January 
9th, 1867, opened the Union School House with a beginning of three pupils, which 
was shortly afterwards increased to 157. During the second year the number of pupils 
was increased to 188. 

The third term was divided by her charge of Union School — 223 pupils; Hemen- 
way School — 157 pupils, and Pioneer School — 45 pupils. 

Her fourth term was classed Normal School — 60 pupils; Union School — 211 pu- 
pils, and Hemenway School — 176 pupils. 

The fifth term, October 10th, 1870, to June 30th, 1871, Union and Hemenway 
Schools expended $5,983.81— of which the State provided $1,286.70, and the Peabody 
Fund 1,000, retaining seven assistant teachers and enrolling 192 and 205 pupils, re- 
spectively. 

In addition to their annual report, November 23d, 1871, the School Committee of 
the Township of Wilmington, James H. Chadbourn being Chairman, made the follow- 
ing statement : 

"In the first communication of the Committee to your Board, you were informed 
that there were no school-houses within the limits of the township belonging to the 
State or county; and in a subsequent communication, dated February 8, 1870, a pro- 
position was made to you for the purchase of two school-houses (one for each race), for 
the sum of $3,000 each, and you were requested to levy a tax upon the property of 
the township, which v/ould produce the sum of $6,000 'for that purpose. 

The proposition was agreed to, and a tax levied, which yielded the sum of $5,- 
738.61. 

The Committee, with the approval of your Board and the Superintendent of In- 
struction, purchased the Hemenway school-house of Miss Amy M. Bradley, for $3,000, 
with the promise on her part, that the money she received for it should be expended 
in continuing her two schools, then in successful operation. This understanding was 
carried out in good faith, and to the entire satisfaction of the Committee. 

The cost of sustaining the Union and Hemenway Grammar Schools for the past 
two years, has been $10,850.40 — $1,266.70 of this sum was received from the State, 
$2,500 from the Peabody Fund, $3,000 from the sale of the Hemenway school-house — 
and the balance, $4,083.70, from the friends of Miss Bradley and her work. 

Seven teachers have been constantly employed for a term of nine months each 
year. The number of scholars has been over 400, and the average attendance about 
300, These schools have attracted the attention of all who feel any interest in free 
schools in this city, and by good judges, who have visited them, have been compared 
favorably with the best grammar schools in the country." 

In October, 1871, agreeably to the foregoing understanding, the advanced divis- 
ions of the Union and Hemenway Schools were united under the name of 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 



THE TILESTON NORMAL SCHOOL, 



And the session opened in the Union School House — the Hemenway School House 
having been purchased by the county. In October, 1872, this school was moved into 
the new building on Ann street, erected by that distinguished philanthropist and friend 
of education, Mrs. Augustus Hemenway, of Boston, at a cost of $30,000. 

In the earlier part of her work. Miss Bradley's object was often misunderstood by 
this sore-hearted people ; but in recent years, hundreds of happy homes in their midst 
bear cheerful and grateful testimony of the substantial good she has accomplished. The 
system and course of instruction has been thorough, practical and comprehensive , the 
discipline, by moral suasion, inflexible and effective; and the result — the education of 
hundreds of young people of limited means, in all the essential branches of an educa- 
tion which compares favorably with that of any institution in the State. 

"One of the noblest and most effective aims of the institution has been the pre- 
paratory education of boys for the mechanical professions. With unusual discernment, 
Miss Bradley saw that the avenues of the learned professions were being crowded with 
mediocrity, and that our counting-houses were filled to overflowing, with little prospect 
of advancement, and that the mechanical trades — degraded in pubhc estimation by false 
notions of the dignity of labor — were offering extraordinary attractions in remunerative 
and abundant work, with every encouragement for excellence in all departments of 
skilled workmanship. 

With this in view, many of our boys have been prepared by her efficient instruction 
for intelligent apprentices as machinists, boiler-makers, carpenters, masons and black- 
smiths; others for matriculation at the Boston School of Technology, with higher aims 
as mechanical and mining engineers. 

There is nothing superficial in the work of this school. An hour's visit will con- 
vin -re the most skeptical that the Principal is thoroughly in earnest, that her assistants 
are imbued with the same spirit, efficient in the highest degree, forbearing and patient, 
and that the good accomplished is simply incalculable." 



CHURCHES. 



Wilmington is about as well provided with places of divine worship as any city of its 
size in the country. There are thirty-eight places of public worship — the principal church 
buildings being St. James' (Episcopal), St. John's (Episcopal), St. Paul's (Episcopal), 
St. Mark's (colored Episcopal), First Presbyterian, Second Presbyterian, Chestnut 
Street Presbyterian (colored), St. Thomas' Pro-Cathedral (Roman Catholic), Front 
Street Methodist, Fifth Street Methodist, St. Stephen's (colored Methodist), St. Luke's 
(colored Methodist), First Baptist, Second Baptist, First Baptist (colored). Temple of 
Israel (Hebrew), Congregational and Lutheran. The average Sunday attendance of 
whites is estimated at 3,600, and that of the negroes 6,000. The value of church 
property is estimated between $265,000 and $270,000. 

There are few cities in the Union where so deep and fervent an interest is taken in 
religious matters, and as a rule the churches are both largely attended and well sus- 
tained. 

We give the following brief sketches of several of the leading churches of the city 
whose pastors have kindly furnished us with the requisite data. Those not mentioned 
failed to respond to our request for information. 



WILMINGTON — t>AST, I^RESENT ANt> FUTURE. S3 

THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 

Owing to the fact that unfortunately the records of the estabHshrnent of this church 
have been lost, the date of the first organization cannot be given, but it was about the 
year 1816. The present church edifice is located on the corner of Third and Orange 
streets, the structure being 100x60 feet in dimensions. The auditorium is 90x60 feet, 
with a seating capacity of from 750 to 800 persons. There are two Sunday school 
rooms, one 65x30 and the other 30x25 feet in size, which are connected by folding- 
doors. The church membership is nearly 300; the number of Sunday school scholars 
175, and teachers 30. The present pastor is the Rev. Joseph R. Wilson, who entered 
upon his duties here in October, 1874. 

The Ruling Elders are Messrs. B. G. Worth, George Chadbourn, A. A. Willard, 
C. H. Robinson, Samuel Northrop, John McLaurin and B. F. Hall. 

Deacons — G. W. Williams, W. R. Kenan, H. H. Munson, James Alderman, D. 
G. Worth, James Sprunt, C. P. Mebane and John D. Taylor. 

The following clergymen have successively occupied this pulpit down to the pres- 
ent time : Rev. Artemus Boies, Rev. Leonard E. Lathrop, Rev. Noel Robertson, 
Rev. Thomas P. Hunt, Rev. James A. McNeill, Rev. W. W. Eels, Rev. Thomas R. 
Owen, Rev. J. O. Stedman, D. D., Rev. M. B. Grier, D. D., Rev. H. L. Singleton, 
Rev. A. F. Dickson and Rev. Joseph R. Wilson, D. D. 

SECOND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. 

The Second Presbyterian Church of Wilmington was organized in December, 
1858, under the ministration of Rev. Martin McQueen. Its first officers were Alex. 
Sprunt and John C. Latta, Ruling Elders; and John Colville, J. R. Latta, James Price 
and J. H. Blanks, Deacons. The membership at first was only fourteen. The mem- 
bership had grown to thirty-eight in 1862, when the congregation was broken up and 
scattered by the war and the yellow fever epidemic of that year. In 1872 a Sabbath 
school was gathered together, and in 1874 the congregation was re-organized with 
thirteen of the old members. The church now has a membership of 140, with 125 Sun- 
day school scholars and 25 teachers. From 1872 to 1874 H. G. Barr was the stated 
supply, and in the latter year the present pastor, Rev. C. M. Payne took charge. The 
present officers of the church are Messrs. Alex. Sprunt, John Colville, Robert Mc- 
Dougald, J. R. Latta, W, H. Sprunt, W. J. Smelt, L. T. Beatty, J. W. Munroe, Wal- 
ter Smallbones and James C. Stewart. The church edifice is located at the corner of 
Fourth and Campbell streets, and is 30x66 feet in dimensions. The auditorium is 
28x60 feet in size and will seat about 300 persons. The Sunday school room is the 
same size as the auditorium 

ST. Paul's protestant episcopal. 

This church was first established in 1858. It is situated at the corner of Fourth 
and Orange streets, the edifice being 60x30 feet in dimensions, and having a seating 
capacity of about 300. It now has a membership of ninety-five persons, about fifty 
Sunday school scholars and ten teachers. The present rector is the Rev. T. M. Ambler. 

Christ's church (congregational.) 

Christ's Congregational Church was first organized May 3d, 1870, with a member- 
ship of eleven persons. H. B. Blake was the first pastor, and officiated in that capacity 
for a period of three years, when he was succeeded by the present incumbent, Rev. 
Daniel D. Dodge. The building is located on Main street, between Sixth and Seventh, 
and 36x72 feet in dimensions. The auditorium is 36x60 feet in size and 22 feet in 
height from floor to ceiling, having a seating capacity of about 500. The Sunday school 
is held in the school building, which has two wings. The congregation numbers forty 
souls, and the Sunday school has three hundred scholars and ten teachers. 

The officers of the church are Anthony Pedin and Calvin Blount, Deacons, and 
Esther A. Warner, Treasurer and Clerk. 

5 



§4 WILMINGTON— PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 



THE PRESS-ITS HISTORY, SC. 



The present is emphatically a newspaper-reading age. If our readers will take 
the trouble to picture to themselves the condition of our ancestors in the absence of so 
common a thing as a newspaper, they will be more able to fully appreciate the great 
convenience, usefulness and power of the press of to-day. Before the press began its 
labors, how slow do time and events appear to have traveled in comparison with the 
present, and how unreliable very often was the reported news for a lengthened period. 
We do not mean to intimate that the latter characteristic never attaches to the news- 
paper press of nowadays; but the misdemeanor of one journal, in this respect, is soon 
found out and corrected by the watchfulness of its contemporaries. Now almost every 
man takes at least his weekly, and in our large towns and cities it is indeed rare to find 
one in business who does not take regularly one or more dailies. The leading articles in our 
principal papers are often essays of great merit, and being written by men of acknowl- 
edged standing and ability, carry a proportionate amount of influence with them, over 
and above that inspired by the subject and its manner of treatment. 

The political is, doubtless, the chief element in the general make up of our news- 
papers, but this exhausts but a comparatively small portion of their contents. Our 
public meetings, social and other gatherings, novelties of discovery in any art or science, 
together with the latest news from all parts of the civilized world, are well noticed and 
brought before the public by the enterprising and ever-ready press. The proceedings 
in our criminal and civil courts of law, and National and State Legislatures, are also re- 
ported, and, doubtless, gratify innumerable readers on various accounts; while that 
portion of a paper devoted to markets, the prices of commodities, stocks and bonds, 
rates of exchange and general mercantile and industrial intelligence, the greater part of 
which, to the uninitiated, seems but a series of mazy groups of figures, is full of valu- 
able meaning to the merchant and business man, who knows that but a slight variation 
of some of these figures will usher in gloom and desolation to hundreds of families who 
are dependent upon a fluctuating trade. Truly the power of the press is great, and to 
the free and judicious exercise of this power is to be ascribed the unprecedented great- 
ness of the people of these United States. The extension of commerce, the utilization 
of science, the spread of enlightenment and intelligence, the reform of morals, the 
maintenance of public law, of social order and of individual right — in a word, all that 
pre-eminently distinguishes the present age, is due mainly to the influence of a free and 
enlightened press. 

The history of the press of Wilmington is one ot the most interesting and note- 
worthy features in the record of the city's progress. We are told by the historian that 
the Lords Proprietors and the Royal Governors were extremely hostile to the establish- 
ment of newspapers in the colony under their administration. We are further told that 
the Governor of Virginia would not suffer the use of the printing press in the colony 
under any pretense whatever, and that Sir William Berkley, one of the Proprietors of 
North Carolina, thanked God that there was not a printing press in any of the Southern 
colonies. Notwithstanding such opposition, however, a printing press was introduced 
into North CaroUna, and a paper published at Newbern, by James Davis, in 1749, one 
hundred and thirty-five years ago. It was called the North Carolina Gazette, and was 
issued weekly. The second paper published in the State was at Wilmington, where, 
in 1764, the Cape Fear Gazette and Wilmington Advertiser was started by Andrew 
Stewart. This paper was discontinued in 1767, but was succeeded in the same year by 
the Cape Fear Mercury, published and edited by an Englishman named Adam Boyd, 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 35 

who afterwards left the press for the pulpit. There is no record extant as to how long 
the Mercury continued to exist. It has frequently been stated that there could be found 
no trace of any other publications in Wilmington prior to 1818. Through the courtesy 
of Hon. A. H. Van Bokkelen, President of the Chamber of Commerce, to whom we 
are indebted for many favors, the writer has just been shown a well preserved copy of 
The Cape Fear Herald, a weekly paper published by Boylan & Ray. It bears date 
Wednesday, November 2d, 1803, and is Vol. I, No. 46. It contains, among other 
things, Thos. Jefferson's Message to the Eight Congress, which was presented to that 
body Monday, October 17th, 1803. The existence of this paper forever sets at rest 
what has heretofore been a disputed point in the history of the press of Wilmington. 

In 1818 a gentleman named David Smith, Jr., began the publication of a paper 
called the Cape Fear Recorder, and continued it until 1825, when he was succeeded 
by Mr. Archibald McLean Hooper, a cultured and educated gentleman, and a ready 
and forcible writer. For a long time this was the only newspaper published in this sec- 
tion of the State, and naturally wielded great influence. 

In 1834 Henry S. Ellinwood came to this city and took editorial charge of a paper 
then published here called the Wilmington Advertiser. His connection with it was 
brief, however, as he died suddenly soon after assuming its control and management. 
The paper, at his death, was purchased by Mr. Joshua Cochrane, of Fayetteville, who 
conducted it until the summer of 1836, when he also died, and the paper fell into the 
hands of Mr. F. C. Hill, as editor and proprietor, who continued its publication until 
1842, in which year it took its place in history as a thing of the past. 

A publication contemporaneous with the Advertiser was the People's Press, a paper 
published by P. W. Fanning and Thomas Loring, the latter being editor-in-chief, a 
position which he held for some time, when he disposed of his interest and purchased 
the Standard at Raleigh, which paper was at that time the organ of the Democracy of 
this State. Differing with his party in 1842 in regard to the course pursued towards 
the banks of the State, he retired from the paper, returned to Wilmington and estab- 
lished the Tri-Weekly Commercial, which he conducted until failing health forced him 
to retire from journalism, and its publication was discontinued. 

In 1838 the Wilmington Chronicle was established by Asa A. Brown. It advocated 
the principles of the Whig party with great ability and earnestness. In 1851 Talcott 
Burr, Jr., purchased the paper and changed its name to the Wilmington Herald. Un- 
der his capable management the Herald became one of the leading and most influen- 
tial papers in the State. Mr. Burr continued its publication until 1858, in which year 
he departed this life in the prime of a useful manhood. His brothers, C. E. and R. Burr, 
carried on the paper for several years afterwards, when it was purchased by A. M. 
Waddell, and, upon the breaking out of the war, it ceased to exist. 

The first number of the Wilmington Journal was issued in 1844 by Messrs. Alfred 
L. Price and David Fulton. For many years thereafter this publication exercised a 
controling influence upon the political questions of the day. The editorial charge of 
the paper was in the hands of Mr. Fulton, and so remained until the time of his death, 
when his brother, Mr. James Fulton, took charge of its editorial management. Under 
his control the Journal became a powerful influence, not only in this section, but 
throughout the entire State. In the early part of 1866 Mr. Fulton died and was suc- 
ceeded by Major J. A. Engelhard, who fully sustained the reputation the Journal had 
acquired under its previous management. Col. Wm. L. Saunders became connected 
with the paper by the retirement of Mr. Alfred L. Price, and the firm became Engel- 
hard & Saunders. During the perilous times and almost utter demoralization of society 
that followed the close of the war, the utterances of this paper were manly and fearless 
in denunciation of the oppressive measures taken by the party in power under their 
so-called, reconstruction policy. It continued in existence until 1878, when, overcome 
by adverse circumstances, its publication was discontinued, and it was purchased by 
the Daily Review, an afternoon paper published by Josh. T. James, as editor and pro- 
prietor, who now issues it, in connection with the Review, as a weekly, still retaining the 
old name. 

Several other papers were, at different times, pubHshed in the city, but their exist- 
ence was only temporary, and we have not considered them important enough to 



36 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE, 



demand mention at our hands. 

There are two daily papers now pubUshed in WIlmini;ton — The Morning Star and 
the Daily Review. 

THE MORNING STAR. 

This well-known and influential newspaper is an able representative of that indus- 
try and enterprise which are so essential to the success of journalism in the present age* 
of enlightenment and progress. It is conducted editorially with marked dignity, cour- 
tesy and good taste ; its business is prosperous and its circulation large, extending all 
over this section. It is at all times Democratic in politics, recognizing party fealty as 
the highest obligation of a party newspaper. It is not only the oldest, but one of the 
best dailies now published in the State. Its market reports are prepared with great 
care, and the regular dispatches of the New York Associated Press are supplemented 
by telegrams and communications of special correspondents, giving it the fullest and 
most complete summary of North Carolina news of any paper published within the 
State. Locally, the Morning Star holds the very highest rank, and its daily presenta- 
tion of Wilmington happenings is looked to by all as being reliable, readable and 
complete. The daily was established by Mr. W. H. Bernard, the present editor and 
proprietor, and its first issue appeared September 23d, 1867. The weekly was afterwards 
established, the date of its first publication being November 1st, 1869. The former is 
24x36 inches, the latter 27x42. The editorial staff of the Morning Star at the present 
time is, Wm. H. Bernard, editor and proprietor; T. B. Kingsbury, associate editor; J. 
H. Muse, city editor, and H. H. Smith, assistant reporter. 

Its editorial department is conducted with signal ability and an intelligent inde- 
pendence, while its city columns contain full and well-written presentations of all matters 
of local interest. In a word, the paper, in its manifold features of excellence, is one of 
the best representatives of metropolitan journalism south of Mason and Dixon's line. 

THE DAILY REVIEW. 

The Daily Review is one of the most influential and widely circulated newspapers 
in the State of North Carolina. It was established in 1875, and afterwards became, by 
purchase, the successor of the Journal, a daily publication whose existence dated back 
to 1844. The Review is now published every afternoon, ^except Sunday, the Journal 
still being issued in connection with it as a weekly, appearing every Friday. The Re 
view has always exercised a wide influence in all matters of public interest, and paid 
vigilant and critical attention to local affairs. It has been an important factor in the 
growth and prosperity of the city, and has invariably given a liberal and discriminating 
support to mercantile and industrial interests, which owe a lasting debt to its intelligent 
labors in their behalf. The paper's especial features are accuracy, promptness in getting 
together all items of news and fidelity to honest convictions. The sharp, pungent par- 
agraph is a praiseworthy feature of its editorial department, and all matters, of either 
local or general interest, are creditably presented in a most comprehensive shape. The 
editorial staff consists of Josh. T. James, editor and proprietor, and Major H. H. Fos- 
ter, associate and local editor. Under the editorial management and direction of Mr. 
James, the paper has assumed distinctive and attractive characteristics, which Major 
Foster has energetically promoted. It is strictly Democratic in politics, is extensively 
quoted by contemporary journals, and considered one of the best exponents of Demo- 
cratic principles in this section. No paper in the State is conducted with more dignified 
manliness or is more devoted to the best interests of the community in which it is pub- 
lished. 

THE SUNDW MORNING MAIL. 

The first issue of this bright and attractive weekly paper made its appearance on 
Sunday morning, January 13th, 1884, and supplies a want which has long been felt in 
this community. Although in existence but so short a time, it has already become the 
most popular publication in the city, and its appearance every Sunday is eagerly looked 
forward to. It is devoted to the manufacturing and general interests of North Caro- 
lina, to society, art, the drama, and the presentation of all items of news of general 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 37 

interest. Politically and religiously the Mail is untrammeled, and freer to express its 
views on all subjects than any other paper in this section. 

It is neatly printed and presents a better appearance than any paper in North Carolina. 
It reaches the very best classes in the community, and as an advertising medium com- 
mends itself to the most favorable consideration of business men. It is published every 
Sunday morning by Messrs. E. S. Warrock & Co., proprietors. 

In this connection we desire to also call attention to the job printing establishment 
of the same firm. They have been making rapid strides in this department of their 
business since the first of October, 1882, when they began to enlarge upon the already 
flourishing business of Mr, E. S. Warrock, who is a first-class practical printer and an 
intelligent gentleman. Their operations have increased to such an extent that they have 
been compelled to add to their already finely equipped job office two new presses and 
a new ruling machine. Their type is entirely new, and these gentlemen enjoy the 
reputation of turning out promptly and on short notice work that, in point of neatness 
and style, is not only of the most excellent character, but superior than that of probably 
any other office of the kind in the city. 

NORTH CAROLINA PRESBYTERIAN. 

This weekly publication was first established in 1858, at Fayetteville, as the official 
organ of the Synod of North Carolina, and has continued in existence uninterruptedly 
ever since that time, with the exception of a short period just after the close of the war. 

In 1874 it was removed to Wilmington, where it has ever since been published. It 
is a religious family newspaper, devoted to the intellectual, moral and spiritual interests 
of the people. It is the only Presbyterian paper published in the State, and one of the 
seven published in the interests of the Southern branch of that church. 

Rev. George McNeill was its first editor, and John McLaurin is its present editor 
and proprietor. 

There are also now published in Wilmington the following journals : 

The Wilmington Post, a weekly, established in 1866. 

The Africo-American Presbyterian, published in the interest of the colored mem- 
bers of that denomination. 

The North Carolina Medical Journal, a monthly publication of great value to the 
profession. It was established in January, 1878. 



PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS. 



SEAMEN'S FRIEND SOCIETY. 

This Society is incorporated by act of the State Legislature, and was organized on 
February 4th, 1853, for the purpose of improving " the moral, social and religious con- 
dition and character of seamen." The building used as the Home, or "Hotel," is a 
tour-story structure, 65x65 feet in dimensions, located on Dock and Front streets, and 
can accomodate 100 seamen. There is also a church or Bethel adjoining the Home, 
which is kept up, and whose chaplain is paid, by annual contributions from the Ameri 
can Seamen's Aid Society of New York City. 



38 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

All ship-wrecked or destitute seamen are cared for by the Society free of charge. 
The revenues of the Society are derived from the annual dues paid by its members and 
the rents received for the stores under the "Hotel." It is to the Rev. Wm. L. Lang- 
don, a Methodist clergyman who devoted many years of his life to the soliciting of 
subscriptions, that this port is indebted, in a great measure, for the success of the in- 
stitution. The Sailors' Bethel was built by the late Capt. Gilbert Potter, and donated 
to the Society. Both church and Society are non-sectarian in their management. 

The present officers of the Society are as follows: Geo. R. French, Sr., President; 
George Harris, Vice President; Geo. R. French, Jr., Secretary and Treasurer; Capt. 
Potter, Chaplain. The Trustees are fifteen in number. The Executive Committee is 
composed of the following gentlemen: Messrs. H. B. Filers, E. T. Hancock and 
R. E. Heide. 

ST. JAMES' HOME. 

"In the spring of 1867, Dr. A. J. DeRossett, Senior Warden of St. James' Parish, 
Wilmington, N. C, conveyed to the vestry of the parish an entire city square, with a 
two-story double wooden house thereon, as a free gift for religious and benevolent use. 
The active exertion of the parishioners, aided by the liberality of friends in different 
portions of the United States, and supplemented by a very successful fair, enabled the 
vestry to restore the residence which had been seriously damaged during the war of 
secession. 

In 1870, a Sunday and a day school were opened in the building for the gratui- 
tous instruction of the poorer white children of the city. The object of the school was 
the instruction of such children as might be reached by it in the more fundamental 
branches of an ordinary English education, in connection with the direct inculcation of 
moral and religious principles, with a view, not merely to prepare its scholars for respect- 
ability and success in the world, but therewith, also, to make them good, orderly citizens, 
both of the commonwealth, and of the church. 

Since its commencement, the school has been maintained without interruption, ex- 
cept for the ordinary vacations. So far as the existing records of attendance supply 
material for the estimate, it is calculated that from 600 to 800 children of both sexes 
have, up to the present time, come under the influences and enjoyed the training of 
the school. Though at no time having room for any very large attendance, the num- 
bers of the school have steadily increased from the first, and there are now upon the 
rolls more than one hundred names. The growth of the school required, very soon 
after its first opening, a separate school room, which was annexed to the main building. 
This has recently been enlarged to more than double its original size, and, thanks 
to the liberality of friends, both in New York and Wilmington, has been lately fur- 
nished with an entire set of new and handsome desks of the most approved pattern. 

Teachers have been employed at fixed salaries during much of the time. But 
much or most of the work has been done — and well done — by the voluntary labor of edu- 
cated women who have devoted themselves to good works, and who have had their 
home on the premises. Since the fall of 1878, the school has been in charge of mem- 
bers of the Sisterhood of the Good Shepherd, whose mother house is in New York, 
and whose work in this connection has been beyond all praise. The order and discipline 
maintained have been such as would compare favorably with that of any other school 
in the country, and the advances in education have been creditable to both teachers 
and scholars. 

In connection with the school, a general mission work among the poorer classes 
has been zealously maintained, and with the best and most evident results. It has been 
a part of the work of the ladies, resident at the Home, to visit the poor and afflicted, 
and carry with them help and consolation — to be instructors in all good and useful 
things — from house to house, especially among the parents of the school children. A 
large and varied work of this sort is incessantly done. 

In addition to this, orphans, or half orphans, have from time to time found a home 
in the house. The more helpless and homeless sick have, in several instances, been 
brought thither and cared for, and nursed till relieved of their sufferings by death, and 



WILMINGTON — f AST, PRESENT ANt) iPtJTtJRfi. 



then decently buried. Invalids from places at a distance, seeking the help of the skilled 
physicians of the city, have been received and nursed. Penitent women have found a 
refuge where the religious influences of the household have aided them in their attempts 
at reformation. Beside all which, the Home has been a nucleus for the benevolence of 
the parish, and has given wise form and direction to its alms. Nor should it be forgot- 
ten that to carry out more completely its influences for good among the children connected 
with its schools, instruction in needle work and in cooking have been added to its other 
departments of education. It is at this time, and in this way, the only industrial school 
in the city known to the writer. 

All this work has, of course, involved considerable expenditure, and at the same 
time required very rigid economy in the administration of the household. 

The institution has so far been supported — 

1st. By a regular subscription kept up by a few ladies and gentlemen of the parish. 

2d. By the collections in its behalf of the Ladies' Association of the parish. 

3d. By public offerings on Ash Wednesday and Thanksgiving Day in each year. 

4th. By occasional contributions. 

At present there are three lady residents at the Home, and constituting the sister- 
hood family, all of them connected with the Sisterhood of the Good Shepherd, and all 
of them, together with another lady of the parish, who comes daily, actively occupied 
in the work." 

The foregoing particulars are taken from a published sketch of the mstitution pre- 
pared by the Rector of St. James Parish. 

WILMINGTON CITY HOSPITAL. 

About four years since, some citizens connected with the countv and city govern- 
ment, having experienced the great difficulty of properly carrying for the indigent sick 
of the city and county, planned the establishment of a hospital for this purpose, and at 
the session of the Legislature of 1880-81, procured a charter which allowed the county 
and city to conjunctly pay or build a hospital for the sick poor, the former bearing 
three-fifths and the latter two-fifths of the cost and operating expenses, and to be con- 
trolled by a Board of Managers, consisting of three members of the Board of County 
Commissioners and two members of the Board of Aldermen. Early in the year of 1881 
this Board organized and purchased for a hospital the Wilmington Garden property, 
occupying a whole square m one of the most elevated portions of the city. 

The number of patients, both pauper and those who pay for their treatment, has 
steadily increased from the beginning. The Board wisely selected one of the best 
surgeons in the city as the resident physician, and, under his careful treatment, with a 
competent corps of nurses, many have been cured, who otherwise would, doubtless, 
have died from want of proper treatment. 

Many patients have come from distant parts of the State, where medical advice is 
not as good as they wish, and have placed themselves here in the hospital where con- 
sultation can be held with all the physicians of the city. The management now find 
the buildings inadequate for the increased number of patients, and have now contracted 
for the erection of a new wing to the main building, containing twelve cots and bath- 
rooms, water closets and operating rooms. 

This noble charity does great credit to the people of Wilmington and New Han- 
over County, as nothing shows the benevolence of a community better than the manner 
in which it provides for its sick and infirm. The Board of Managers are Roger 
Moore, Chairman; B. G. Worth, H. A. Bagg, Sam'l Bear, Jr., W. H. Chadbourn, 
Secretary; W. W. Lane, M. D., Resident Surgeon ; John T. Taylor, Treasurer. 

THE OPERA HOUSE. ,,,„,,; ,^j, ,, ^,„„i^i.^ 

Most cities, in both Europe and America of any metropolitan 'pretefttsioris, "C6fisider 
an opera house a necessary institution, one of the best evidences of culture and refine- 
ment, and a certain indication of commercial progress and wealth. It has, moreover, 
been said by an eminent writer on commercial topics, that, "when a traveler arnves 



40 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTlJRfc. 

in a city and spends a dollar, the effect is just the same as if he had remained abroad 
and sent it to the city, instead of coming and consuming it here ; and is precisely simi- 
lar to that of international commerce, in which the profit is made by the city, if not the 
whole or the principal value received, at least is a large per centage upon that principal. 
But, if that city offers no especial attractions, how can we hope to gain that dollar. We 
are quite certain that the merchant will not come for ever purchase that he makes, unless 
there be offered some inducements to pleasure and recreation, and in ordering his goods 
he will not enclose a dollar toward the support of an institution from which he derives 
no benefit while at a distance. " Whether or not, in recognition of the force of this or 
similar arguments, it is certain that the City of Wilmington is far in advance of many 
of her larger sister cities of the South in respect to having a first-class attractive and 
well patronized place of amusement. The Opera House in this city is situated in, and 
forms a part of, the City Hall building. Its lessee is E. J. Pennepacker, Esq., one of 
the most enterprising and public spirited of the prominent citizens of Wilmington. Its 
interior design and construction is most complete and attractive, both as to the conven- 
ience and accommodation of the audience, and theatrical and operatic companies, as 
well as regards accoustic properties. It is supplied with six dressing rooms, having all 
necessary conveniences, and has property and baggage rooms, together with all neces- 
sary scenery, carpets, &c. The stage is perfectly equipped with all necessary flies, 
traps, shittings and other arrangements, and is 30x35 feet in dimensions. The seating 
capacity of the parquette is 350 ; of the balcony and first gallery, 300 ; of the second 
gallary, 300 ; total, 950. The house is heated by large furnaces, and by means of 
eight fire exits, can be entirely emptied in two minutes. 

The manager, Mr. George R. Dyer, is a gentleman of acknowledged ability and 
business intelligence, and has exhibited rare judgment and managerial skill. The 
Treasurer is Mr. J. H. Hart, a gentleman also perfect in his responsible position as to 
acquirements, urbanity and popularity. Altogether the Wilmington Opera House is a 
most creditable and successful institution. 

THE HISTORICAL AND SCIENTIFIC SOCIETY OF WILMINGTON, N. C. 

This Society was organized in October, 1876, and is the only one of the kind m 
active operation in the State. Its first officers were Rev. G. D. Bernheim, President; 
W. B. McCoy, Secretary and Treasurer ; W. F. Wenzel, Curator, 

The object of the Society is to collect, preserve, and diffuse historical and scientific 
information, especially such as is connected with the State of North Carolina, and, par- 
ticularly, with the Cape Fear region. 

In this it has been so far very successful, and its archives now contain valuable 
records which would jjrobably been forever lost but for the existence of the Association. 
Many rare specimens in the animal and vegetable world have been collected, and con- 
tinued research frequently brings to light, when least expected, some hidden treasure 
which greatly enriches the collection. 

The Society maintained a correspondence with similar organizations throughout the 
country, and a system of exchange has been established, by means of which the various 
publications of those sections are regularly received. They are also the recipients of 
publications from the Smithsonian Institute at Washington. 

The meetings of the Society are held monthly, at which time a paper upon some 
historical or scientific subject is read by a member previously designated for that pur- 
pose, and which are published. It is a matter of gratification that so many of those 
papers have been favorably commented upon, not only at home, but also abroad. It 
is the intention of the Society, in the not far distant future, to have all of its productions 
published in one or more volumes for sale and distribution, and it is but reasonable to 
suppose, from the recognized abilities of the writers, that the work will be a valuable 
addition to the literature and history of this section of the State particularly. 

The Association has labored under many disadvantages from its organization — the 
want of capital has been, and still is, a very serious one. Not having the means to 
control a building of its own, it has been compelled to rent a room from year to year in 
which its meetings are held, which is a very unsatisfactory arrangement, as it affects the 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 41 

idea of stability, but, nevertheless, it has more than equaled the expectations of its 
founders, and is doing a good work that will be appreciated by posterity. 

The officers of the Society are elected annually, and hold their positions for one 
year, but are eligible for re-election. The present officers are Col. J. G. Burr, Presi- 
dent; Rev. A. A. Watson, D. D., Vice-President ; S. A. Story, Secretary and Treasurer; 
Rev. F. W, E, Peschan, Corresponding Secretary ; David Cashwell, Curator. 

OAKDALE CEMETERY COMPANY. 

The charter of this corporation was granted on the 27th day of December, 1852, 
and the company was organized on the 16th of November, 1853. The grounds were 
opened, and the first interment made on the 6th of February, 1855. The necessity 
for the formation of this corporation grew out of the fact that the old time-honored cus- 
tom of interments within the city church yards was fast giving way, in other places, to 
the cemetery system of burials, and a few public-spired gentlemen of Wilmington sug- 
gested the location of a central cemetery, "to be universally adopted as a substitute 
for the old grave-yards then in use.'" Acting upon this suggestion, the grounds just 
east of the "Old Burnt Mill Creek," containing 60 acres, were purchased and named 
"Oakdale, '' and dedicated to the preservation and continued protection of the dead. 

All revenue, from whatever source it may be derived, is devoted to the mainte- 
nance of the grounds. 

Up to the present time about one-third, or probably one-half of the grounds, have 
been improved and formed into sections, and sections into lots, each lot containing 
four hundred square feet. The sections vary in size to suit the conformation of the 
grounds, as follows : 

Section A has 4 lots, section B has 151 lots, section C has 23 lots, section D has 110 
lots, section E has 42 lots, section F has 70 lots, section G has 25 lots, section H has 
124 lots, section J has 87 lots, while the last section, K, which has been opened, con- 
tains 150 lots, without including the plot donated to the Ladies' Memorial Association 
for the Confederate dead, to which 453 bodies were removed and buried in two semi- 
circular graves, and upon which stands the most beautiful monument erected to the 
Confederate dead in the South. 

Owing to the loss of some of the records during the war, as well as to the con- 
fusion growing out of that terrible epidemic of 1862 — the yellow fever — which carried 
hundreds to their graves, including both the Secretary and Superintendent of this com- 
pany, the present Secretary, Mr. R. J. Jones, says: 

"I cannot give a correct list of the interments since the opening of the grounds. 
My records, commencing February 4th, 1867, show 1,825 for the past sixteen years, 
or up to the 1st of January, 1883, and it is but fair to presume, that with the casualities of 
the war and yellow fever combined, there were at least 2,000 buried before my record 
commences." 

The present managers are : Donald MacRae President; Timothy Donlan, Super- 
intendent; Richard J. Jones, Secretary and Treasurer. Directors — Edward Kidder, 
W, H. Northrop, Wm. J. Yopp, Geo. R. French, James H. Chadbourn, Dr. A. J. De- 
Rossett. 

CLARENDON WATER WORKS. 

The Clarendon Water Works Company was organized on April 16th, 1881, and the 
works were completed during the following autumn. They began supplying the city 
with water during the month of December, 1881. The hydrant service was accepted 
by the city during January, 1882. There are about twelve and a half miles of main 
pipes from four to twelve inches in diameter, and about one and a half miles of service 
pipes and small mains from three-fourths of an inch to two inches in diameter. 

There are over one hundred public fire hydrants and nearly three hundred consumers. 
The daily consumption at the present time is upwards of 100,000 gallons. The Com- 
pany makes use of what is known as the stand-pipe and direct pressure system. The 

6 



42 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 



water is pumped into the stand-pipe for ordinary use, but in case of fire it is pumped 
directly into the mains, the pressure being increased as the exigencies of the case de- 
mand. The stand-pipe is 20 feet in diameter and 90 feet high, which gives a domes- 
tic pressure of from 25 to 50 pounds to the square mch. The fire pressure is usually 
100 pounds per square inch. The capacity of the stand-pipe is 210,000 gallons. 

The works have two Worthington duplex pumping engines — one high pressure of 
500,000 gallons daily capacity, and the other a compound non-condensing engine, of 
1,000,000 gallons daily capacity. This can be increased about 25 per cent, if necessary. 

The capital stock is $50,000 and the works cost about $150,000, the balance being 
represented by stock. 

WILMINGTON GAS LIGHT COMPANY. 

This company was chartered January 27th, 1851, and was organized in February, 
1855. Its capital stock is $100,000. The works are located at the corner of Surry and 
and Castle streets. The gas produced is manufactured from wood and rosin, and the 
holders have a capacity of 40,000 cubic feet of gas. The price charged is $2.50 per 
1,000 cubic feet. The length of mains is about ten miles. 

The officers are Edward Kidder, President; Richard I. Jones, Secretary and 
Treasurer; John W. Reilly, Superintendent. 

THE WILMINGTON TELEPHONE EXCHANGE 

was opened here in 1879, Wilmington being the first city in the South to adopt the 
telephone exchange system. In 1880 the method of working was much improved by 
the introduction of the "Law System" of central office "switching," which is claimed 
to be the best in the world. 

Wilmington was also the second city in the United States to adopt the telephonic 
fire alarm system, the wisdom of which action has been frequently demonstrated. 

SECRET AND BENEVOLENT SOCIETIES. 

There are twenty-eight benevolent organizations in the City of Wilmington, of 
which twenty-two are white, and six colored. First in order, as in age, is St. John's 
Lodge No. 1, F. & A. M. This is probably the first Lodge organized in North Carolina, 
as the register of the Grand Lodge of England, published in 1762, contains the follow- 
ing: "213, A Lodge at Wilmington, on Cape Fear river in the province of North Car- 
olina, March 1755." In 1791 the Grand Lodge, after a full investigation of the claims 
of all the Lodges to priority, in the award of numbers, gave St. John's Lodge at Wil- 
mington, the "No. 1," thus showing that it has claims to antiquity, which claims the 
records sustain. It is to be regretted that there is no record containing the names of its 
first members, but we know that they were among the most prominent Wilmington cit- 
izens. For more than a century this Lodge has been active in good works, and in its 
green old age still flourishes with as much vigor as in the early days of its youth. 

Cape Fear Lodge No. 2, I. O. O. F. (Independent Order of Odd Fellows), was 
instituted by dispensatian from the Grand Lodge of the United States, in the town of 
Wilmington, on the 13th of May, 1842. Its officers first were W. S. G. Andrews, Noble 
Grand; Valentine Hodgson, Vice Grand; Wiley A. Walker, Secretary ; Alexander 
McRae, Treasurer. 

The Lodge was organized on the second floor of a building owned by the late 
Aaron Lazurus, on the corner of North Water street and Ewing's alley, and had only 
vacated those quarters about two or three months for their new one on Front street, 
now occupied by J. L. Boatwright, Esq., when the great fire of 1843 burned every 
building on the wharf, from Ewing's alley to the depot of the Wilmington & Weldon 
Railroad Company. 

On the 26th of April, 1870, the Lodge commenced the erection of their new hall on 
Third street, and on the 1st of January, 1871, formally occupied the same as their per- 
manent home. It now numbers over fifty members. 

The other societies are as follows : 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 43 

MASONIC. 

Wilmington Lodge No. 319, Concord Chapter No. 1, Wilmington Council No. 4 
and Wilmington Commandery No. 1. 

I. o. o. F. 

Orion Lodge No. 67, Oriana Lodge, Daughters of Rebecca, No. 3, Wilmington 
Degree No. 1 and Campbell Encampment No. 1. 

KNIGHTS OF PYTHIAS. 

Stonewall Lodge No. 1 and Germania Lodge No. 4. 

AMERICAN LEGION OF HONOR. 

Clarendon Council No. 67. 

KNIGHTS AND LADIES OF HONOR. 

R. H. Cowan Lodge No. 549 

INDEPENDENT ORDER OF RED MEN. 

Wyoming Tribe No. 4. 

I. O. O. B. (HEBREW.) 

North State Lodge No. 222. 

K. S. B. (HEBREW.) 

Manhattan Lodge No. 158, 

ROYAL ARCANUM. 

Cornelus Harnett Council No. 231. 

KNIGHTS OF HONOR. 

Carolina Lodge No. 434. 

There are also a number of colored associations. 

ladies' BENEVOLENT SOCIETY. 

This is probably the oldest of the charitable institutions of Wilmington, having 
been organized early in 1845, and in 1852 it was incorporated as "The Ladies' Benevo 
lent Society of Wilmington, North Carolina." 

During the war, the operations of the Society were entirely suspended, but in 1868 
a re-organization was effected, and Mrs. C. G. Kennedy elected President. This lady 
has been successively re elected, and to her, more than to any one else in Wilmington, 
is the success of the Society due, almost her whole time being devoted to its work. In 
1872, a lot which had been donated to the Society before the war, was sold, and one- 
half the proceeds given to the family of the donor, who were left much impoverished 
by the war. The remaining half, together with the proceeds of some railroad stock, 
was used to purchase a more suitable place for the Home, which the Society wished to 
organize, and in 1881 was established the "The Old Ladies' House of Rest." The 
President, in her annual report for 1881, says: "The House is rather small, and is 
now occupied, almost to its full extent, by respectable and worthy ladies, to whom, as 
yet, we can only give a comfortable shelter, not having funds for the support of those 
who are received, but hope to be sustained in our efforts to make it altogether what its 
name imports. It is even now a harmonious and peaceful home — not denominational, 
but guarded by Christian principles." 

The Society is supported entirely by voluntary contributions of money, wood and 
provisions, from benevolent citizens and the dues of its members, which are one dollar 
a year. 

ST. GEORGE AND ST. ANDREW SOCIETY, OF WILMINGTON. 

This is a charitable Society, and was instituted in 1871. Its object is to relieve and 
aid sick and distressed Englishmen and Scotchmen. The members of this Society wish 



44 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

to alleviate all suffering amongst their fellow-countrymen. The Treasurer has expended 
about $1,500 in such charities since the Society was founded. The present membership 
number about thirty-four. None but Englishmen, Scotchmen, or the sons or grandsons 
of native English or Scots are admitted as resident members. 

Officers — Alex. Sprunt, President; Robt. Sweet, Vice President; John Colville, 
Treasurer; H. G. Smallbones, Secretary, and T. F. Wood, Physician. 

The regular meetings are held on the second Monday of each month, and the an- 
nual meeting on the 21st of March. The fees are 50 cents per month, and the life 
members are required to pay $50, which relieves them from all other dues. 

THE HIBERNIAN ASSOCIATION, OF WILMINGTON, 

Was organized in 1866 for the purpose of relieving sickness and distress among its mem- 
bers, and also to assist strangers, (their fellow-countrymen), who would otherwise be a 
burthen to the community. The present membership is about fifty. 

The Society is not a secret organization, but purely benevolent, and includes in a 
bond of good fellowship nearly all of the most respectable Irishmen of this community ; 
many having risen to wealth and honor, and not a few of whom have been identified 
in the past with the material progress of the city. 

The officers are elected yearly. 

HOTELS. 

There are not sufficient hotel accomodations in Wilmington. 

There are a number of minor associations and institutions of a social, hterary and 
military character in the city, but we have not the space to speak of them in detail. 



HARBOR AND RIVER IMPROVEMENTS. 



THE HARBOR AND IMPROVEMENTS OF CAPE FEAR RIVER AND BAR BELOW WILMINGTON. 

On Other pages of this volume we have repeatedly directed attention to the extra- 
ordinary advantages and facilities possessed by the City of Wilmington as a great center 
of trade and commerce, and as a depot for the reception of those products which find 
so ready a market and are in such great demand in foreign countries. The position of 
the city, as regards easy accessibility and convenient distances of carriage, is at once 
commanding and important. For years this city has supplied a larger portion of the 
naval stores in the markets of the world than any other, while the exports from this 
port of the greatest of all agricultural products — cotton — are of a magnitude demand- 
ing especial consideration. The city is also the natural entrepot for the grain and pro- 
duce of the West seeking foreign markets, and as a port of refuge on the exposed coast 
of North Carolina, its utiUty does not admit of calculation. It, therefore, becomes a 
matter of supreme and paramount importance, not only to all classes of this community, 
but to the world at large, that the great undertaking of procuring and maintaining the 
requisite depth of channel should succeed. Upon it depends the future prosperity of 
the city. The operations so far have been eminently successful, and it is the duty of 
the General Government to see to it that they be rapidly pushed forward until the desired 
result be attained. There are a number of gentlemen who have devoted considerable 
time and attention to the advancement of these much-needed and greatly to be desired 
improvements, but no one does the City of Wilmington owe more in this regard than to 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE, 45 

Hon. A. H. Van Bokkelen, President of the Chamber of Commerce, who has been 
untiring in his efforts to induce and secure the necessary legislation on the part of Con- 
gress in this behalf. 

From reliable and official sources we are enabled to give the following condensed 
review of the condition of Cape Fear River, below Wilmington, for the last century, 
and bring the history of its improvements down to the present time : 

The original condition of the entrance to Cape Fear River before the opening of 
the New Inlet in 1761, according to rather uncertain information obtained from old 
maps, was that of a good channel over the bar and shoals of fourteen feet depth at low 
water in the Baldhead Channel, in about the same position as that of the present chan- 
nel. The position and depths of the Smithville Harbor were about as they have ever 
since remained. The depth of the Horse Shoe Shoals appears to have been about 
twelve feet. The earliest information as to the upper river, from Campbell's Island to 
Wilmington, is that there were shoals in several places where there was not more than 
seven and a half feet depth at low water. 

After the opening of the New Inlet there was a gradual deterioration at the Bald 
head Channel, and variable conditions in the Rip Channel and Bar, and in the New 
Inlet Bar. There are no certain records before 1839, when the survey of Lieutenant 
Glynn shows nine feet at the Baldhead Channel, nine feet at the Western or Rip Chan- 
nel, and ten feet at the New Inlet. 

The Coast Survey Chart of 1851, shows the low water depth at Baldhead Channel 
eight feet, the Western Channel seven feet and New Inlet Bar eight feet. The Coast 
Survey Chart of 1866 does not show much change, the available depths appearing to 
be about the same. A careful survey made by Mr. Vinal, of the Coast Survey, in 
1872, when considerable progress had been made in closing the opening between 
Smith's and Zeke's Islands, shows still nine feet at low water at the Baldhead Channel, 
and the same depth at Rip Channel, and ten feet in the New Inlet Bar. No changes 
appear to have occurred in the upper river until after improvements were made. 

The improvement of the river below Wilmington was begun by the State of North 
Carolina, and continued from 1823 to 1828. In 1829, it was taken in hand by the 
United States, and from 1829 to 1838, inclusive. Congress made annual appropriations, 
amounting to $202,539, which were expended in improving the river from Wilmington 
to Campbell's Island, about nine miles below. The operations consisted mostly of pile 
and plank jetties made to concentrate the currents. Some dredging was also done. 
The plans initiated by the State were continued by the United States. An available in- 
crease of about two feet in depth was obtained, so that nine to nine and one-half feet 
could be carried at low water. 

Projects for improvement were revived in 1852, when Congress appropriated $20,- 
000, and $140,000 was appropriated in 1854. These appropriations were expended for 
the improvement at the entrance, by jelties, at Baldhead Point, and by closing the 
breaches between Smith's and Zeke's Islands. When the latter works were nearly 
completed and the appropriation exhausted, a great storm in September, 1857, destroyed 
to a considerable extent the works at Zeke's Island, leaving the stone foundations only. 
Nothing further was done towards improvement until 1870, when the work began again. 
The project adopted in 1870 was the closure of the breaches between Smith's and 
Zeke's Islands, with the ultimate closure of the New Inlet in view. In 1873 and '74, 
the additional work projected was the dredging of the new channel behind the Horse- 
shoe Shoal's, near Snow's Marsh, and dredging the Baldhead Channel, (which had 
already began to improve), and also dredging and removing obstacles in the river be- 
tween Campbell's Island and Wilmington, so as to obtain twelve feet depth at mean 
low water. The official report to the Commission of Navigation and Pilotage, Wilming- 
ton, on the 1st day of July, 1870, gave depth of water as follows: Western Channel, 
outer bar, ten feet ten inches at low water; Western Channel, rip or inner bar, seven 
feet ten inches at low water; New Inlet, outer bar, nine feet at low water; New Inlet, 
inner bar, nine and a half feet at low water, to which must be added four feet for neap 
tides and six feet for spring tides, to give the depth at high water. In 1870 Baldhead 
Channel was not reported. The recollections of persons who should know, place the 
depth of water on the obstructions in the same at six to six and a half feet at low water. 



46 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

In 1875 the work of closing the New Inlet was begun in earnest. A continuous line of 
mattresses, composed of logs and brush, sunk and loaded with stone, was laid entirely 
across the New Inlet, from October, 1875, to June, 1876. This was the first founda- 
tion of the dam. 

As fast as appropriations were available the work was continued from year to 
year, by piling small stone rip-rap on and over this foundation, and finally bringing it 
up to high water, and then covering it with heavy granite stones on the top and slopes 
to low water. There were many real discouragements during the progress of the work, 
not to speak of the almost universal prediction of ultimate failure by the pilots and 
others, who were well acquamted with the forces to be contended with. The great 
rush of these tidal currents in and out can hardly be realized, even now, when it is 
shown that the alternate difference in level on the sea and river sides of the dam at the 
different stages is usually from one to two feet, and a difference of three and one-half 
feet has been observed. This rush and over-fall caused a scour on both sides of the 
foundation for a depth of from six to sixteen feet below the bottom of the mattresses, 
and the water found its way underneath them, and the scouring caused their irregular 
subsidence. In some instances the settlement was ten or twelve feet within twenty-four 
hours. The only, or at least the best remedy, was to continue to pile on stone and let 
them go to their limit, thus making the foundation from ninety to one hundred and 
twenty feet in width at the base, where the original mattresses were from forty-five 
to sixty feet. The whole work, from shore to shore — Federal Point to Zeke's Island — is 
nearly a mile in length. For about three-fourths of a mile of this length the stone go 
to an average depth of about thirty feet below the top of the dam ; in many places the 
depth is more than thirty-six feet. The limit of subsidence was reached during the year 
1878, since which time it has only been necessary to widen the foundation and cover 
the dam with heavy rock. This was carefully done by the use of three floating derricks 
— one of which was operated by steam — between December, 1879, and July, 1881. 
The stone used in its construction amounts to 181,600 cubic yards, including 16,756 
gross tons of heavy granite. During the progress of the work the small stones below 
high tide were being cemented into a solid mass by oysters and barnacles ; and now the 
whole structure, with its granite surface, is like one solid rock. Its crest is above the 
level of ordinary spring tides, and there can be no question of its permanence. 

When the magnitude, and apparent and real difficulty of the work are considered, 
the cost has been small. The whole cost, from its inception in 1875, to its thorough 
completion in 1881, has not exceeded $480,000. 

During the first three years of the construction of the dam, it did not much effect 
the quantity of the in and out flow of the tides at the New Inlet, but as it approached 
completion, the stoppage was more and more, and the effect on the Baldhead Channel 
increased; this was also assisted by the operation of the suction dredge Woodbury, 
which was thoroughly rebuilt and put in operation on the Baldhead Channel early in 
April, 1879, and continued work until October, 1881, during which time 169,491 cubic 
yards of sand were dredged and dumped in deep water. In good weather the amount 
of compact sand dredged and carried to deep water for dumping would often amount 
to 500 cubic yards per day, and occasionally more than 600 cubic yards. The large 
amount of materials removed by the dredge bore a small proportion to the amount 
carried out by the natural force of the tidal currents, as frequent surveys have proved. 
The following were the shortest soundings in the Baldhead Channel at the end of the 
fiscal years: 1878, 9 feet; 1879, 11 feet; 1880, 13 feet; 1881, 14 feet; 1882, 14 
feet. 

This result has been gratifying in the extreme, and has brought the channel into as 
good or better condition than it was before the breach of the New Inlet in 1761. Up 
to this point, the mean range of tides being four and one-half feet, seventeen and one- 
half feet draft could be carried oyer the bar and shoals at ordinary high water, and 
eighteen and one-half at spring tides. As the available depth of water between Smith- 
ville and Wilmington only allowed fourteen and one-half feet draft at high water, the 
importance of obtaining a greater depth was apparent. An estimate of it was placed 
before Congress, at the instance of Senator M. W. Ransom, in January, 1881, and an 
appropriation of $140,000, designed in part for it, was made by act of Congress, 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 47 

approved March 3, 1881. The project adopted was for a channel to be dredged, where 
dredging was needed to obtain it, of 270 feet wide and sixteen feet depth at mean low 
water, from the deep water at Smithville Harbor to Wilmington, and the first contract 
for dredging was made in May, 1881. Another appropriation of $225,000 was made 
in August, 1882. The work is still in progress, and in the course of the next twelve 
months a depth of eighteen feet will be obtained from the ocean to the city, which will 
eventually be increased, as now contemplated, to from twenty-four to twenty-six feet — 
it being practicable at a moderate cost. 

Wilmington now compares favorably with other Southern ports, and will in a very 
short time be the equal of any. Vessels loading to a draft of over eighteen feet can 
lighten a portion of their cargo at a comparatively small expense and with but sUght 
detention. During the present season foreign steamers of 1,700 tons burden, loaded 
with cotton, have easily proceeded from the city to the sea. This port is also well 
located for a coaling station — is already a port of call for steamers, and is destined ere 
long to become the most popular coaling station on the South Atlantic coast. 

This work of improvement now being carried on by the Government stands high 
in the estimation of the United States Engineer department, and being recognized as a 
truly National work, will always, as it should, receive favorable consideration from the 
Government authorities. Upon a visit of inspection made January 29, 1884, by Hon. 
Robert T. Lincoln, Secretary of War; Gen. H. G. Wright, Chief of Engineers; Gen. 
J. G. Parke, in charge of the Division of Rivers and Harbors office of Chief Engin- 
eers, and Col. W. P. Craighill, engineer in charge of the improvement of the lower 
Cape Fear River and Bar, they found the work progressing satisfactorily, with results 
already attained, giving conclusive evidence that the depth of water contemplated would 
be obtained within a reasonable time. 

From the reports of the engineers in charge there seems to be no doubt but that, 
by a proper jetty system, a depth of at least twenty feet at low water can be obtained 
from the sea across the bar to the harbor. It then becomes a mere matter of expense 
to secure that depth all the way to the city. The matter is certainly important enough 
to deserve careful consideration by the Government. 

The following are the appropriations that have been made by Congress for the 
improvement of Cape Fear River and Bar : 

By act approved March 11, 1870 $100,000 

" " " March 3, 1871 75,000 

" " " June 10,1872 100,000 

" " " March 3, 1873 100,000 

" " " June 23,1874 150,000 

" " " March 3, 1875 150,000 

" " " Aug. 14,1876 132,500 

" " " June 18,1878 160,000 

" " " March 3. 1879 100,000 

" " " June 14,1880 70,000 

" " " March 3,1881 140,000 

" " " Aug. 1,1882 225,000 



Total $1,502,500 



48 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE, 



TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES. 



With reference to direct communication with all p. s of the world, the City of 
Wilmington occupies a position at once commanding -^nd unexcelled. By comprehen- 
sive railway system, all points in the United States are readily and quickly reached ; 
by the Cape Fear River the richest and most fertile sections of the great State of North 
Carolina pay tribute to her commerce, while her eligibility and superior advantages 
as a great maratime port, place her among the greatest commercial and trade centers on 
the South Atlantic coast, and connect her industries with the leading markets of the 
world. We shall briefly consider the 

RAILROADS 

centering here, and call attention to several which are now being projected, and which 
will, in all probability, be completed at an early day. 

WILMINGTON & WELDON RAILROAD. 

This railroad was projected solely by the people of Wilmington, and was com- 
pleted in 1836. Its length from Wilmington to Weldon is 163 miles, the line passing 
through New Hanover, Pender, Wayne, Wilson, Edgecombe, Nash and Halifax Coun- 
ties, with branch roads from Rocky Mount to Tarboro, a distance of seventeen miles, 
and from Halifax to Scotland Neck, twenty miles. It is said to be one of the best 
equipped roads in the South for traveling comfort and speed. President Bridgers has 
not seen fit to respond to our request for information touching matters of interest con- 
nected with the management and affairs of the road, and we are, therefore, unable to 
give any other facts and figures save the following contained in his annual report, No- 
vember, 21, 1882 : 

Gross earnings $ 783,790 27 

Total expenses 574,318 30 

Leaving a net of $ 209,471 98 

The receipts show an increase of $32,873.43, which is made up as follows : 

Through Freight $ 1,033 88 

Passengers 16,877 07 

Local Passengers 24,042 30 

MaU and Express 11,930 97-$53,884 22 

Decrease in Local Freight 21,010 79 

Net increase $32,873 43 

WILMINGTON, COLUMBIA & AUGUSTA RAILROAD. 

For the like reason given above, namely : the failure of President Bridgers to pay 
any attention to our request for information as to this road, of which he is also Presi- 
dent, we can only give our readers the following facts : 

This road is 189 miles in length, and passes from Wilmington into South Carolina, 
through Brunswick and Columbus Counties, North Carolina, and continues its route 
through Marion, Darlington, Sumter and Richland Counties, South Carolina. 

The President's annual report, dated November 21, 1882, gives the following : 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 49 

"The gross receipts for the year are $692,628.52, being an increase of $51,672.22 
over those of the preceding year, which is made up as follows : 

Through Freight $ 6 51 

Local Freight 20,578 44 

Through Passengers 9,704 69 

Local Passengers 8,272 02 

Mail and Express 13,110 56 

Total increase $51,672 22 

The expenses are $553,036.57, in addition to which the following amounts have 
been paid for improvements : 

Two New Engines $ 25,898 10 

One Hundred and Fifty Box Ci:<A $ 88,471 50 

Two Baggage Cars ;n ^^ 4,986 00 

Two Postal Cai-s 7,412 56—100,870 06 

Warehouse at Timmonsville." 4,865 09 

Whiteville 4,536 85 

Wilmington 12,773 45—22,175 39 

Total $148,943 55 

Also 2,200 tons of steel rail and necessary fastenings have been put in the track." 
The Central Railroad has diverted a very considerable amount of business from 

this road at Sumter and various other points, thus materially decreasing its receipts. Its 

advantage to Wilmington, however, is still very great 

THE CAROLINA CENTRAL RAILROAD COMPANY. 

This road is, perhaps, the most important line that enters the city, and is a most 
powerful agent in promoting the prosperity of her business interests. Its route stretches 
westward through a magnificent country of varied and abundant production, traversing 
the counties of New Hanover, Brunswick, Columbus, Bladen, Robeson, Richmond, 
Anson, Union, Mecklenburg, Gaston, Lincoln and Cleveland — a section highly pro- 
ductive of cotton, turpentine and other articles of export. Anson, Union and Rich- 
mond Counties are especially noted for the quality of cotton grown, it being superior to 
that raised in any other part of the State, and generally considered to be the finest up- 
land cotton in the world. The road is 242 miles in length, and its western terminus 
is Shelby, N. C. The history of this road is briefly as follows : In 1855 the acts rati- 
fying the incorporation of the Wilmington & Charlotte and the Wilmington, Charlotte 
& Rutherford Railroads, were passed by the Legislature, and up to the time of the 
war 103 miles had been built on the Eastern Division, and a line of road completed to 
Lincolnton on the Western Division. In 1873 the Carolina Central Railway purchased 
the roads, and completed the line to Charlotte and Shelby in November, 1874. The 
Carolina Central Railway was sold May 21, 1880, and was re-organized as the Carolina 
Central Railroad Company by act of the Legislature ratified January 18th, 1881. It 
connects at Wilmington with the Wilmington, Columbia & Augusta and the Wilming- 
ton & Weldon Railroads ; at Alma, with the Alma & Little Rock Railroad ; at Hamlet, 
with the Raleigh & Augusta Railroad ; at Wadsboro, with the Cheraw & Salisbury Rail- 
road ; at Charlotte, with the Charlotte, Columbia & Augusta and Richmond & Danville 
Railroads, and at Lincolnton, with the Chester & Lenoii Railroad. 

The equipment of the road is first-class, and among the best in this part of the 
South. It has seventy-three miles of steel rails, and its rolling stock consists of twenty- 
nine engines and 410 cars. For the fiscal year ending April 1st, 1883, the receipts 
from all sources were $596,328.98, with expenditures for same period of $427,857.67 — 
this latter sum including the cost of construction, repairs, renewals, &c., of ever de- 
scription, which were quite extensive. Among them may be mentioned the reconstruc- 
tion of the Pee Dee bridge ; culvert to displace Muddy Fork trestle, filling Beal's tres- 
tle, making culverts, filling South Fork trestle, wharf improvements at Wilmington ; 
construction of freight depot at Charlotte, and of shops at Lincolnton, together with 
amounts paid out for purchase of machinery and tools. The showing, therefore, is a 



50 WILMINGTON— PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

highly creditable one for the management. The present officers of the road are as fol- 
foUows : J. M. Robinson, President ; J. C. Winder, General Manager ; L, C. Jones, 
Superintendent ; James Anderson, Treasurer ; J. H. Sharp, Secretary ; F. W. Clark, 
General Freght and Passenger Agent; A. J. Howell, Auditor. The affairs of the com- 
pany are managed with ability and good judgment, and the road is one of the most 
prosperous in the State. 

CAPE FEAR & YADKIN VALLEY RAILWAY, 

The vast importance which the completion and extension of this line of railroad 
will be to Wilmington admits of no calculation. We copy in full a recent article from 
the pen of Major Wm. A. Heme, a gentleman thoroughly familiar with the railroad 
systems and resources of the State. It is worthy of special consideration, as well from 
known ability of the writer as the importance of the subject : 

"The plodding, persistent North Carolinian has always demanded a North Caro- 
lina policy for North Carolinians. 

, "The first, the greatest, the wisest of all the internal improvement fathers. Governor 
Dudley, vexes himself that Virginia, on the one hand, and South Carolina on the other, 
should have been permitted to commercially enrich themselves to the impoverishment 
of our own people and the drying up, so to speak, of our magnificent sea ports, Wil- 
mington and Beaufort Harbor. 

" 'They were,' he said, in 1838, 'stripping the carcas while the limbs yet quiver 
with life,' and he proposed to 'play back' upon them with a northwest and southeast 
system of railway — the Cape Fear & Yadkin River Railroad, then in vogue. 

"Time hallows the memories of our internal improvement men, from Caldwell to 
Morehead, and record has noted their achievement, but amid all revolving changes the 
index finger of nature has never pointed away from North Carolina's best line of inter- 
nal improvement and field of highest material development. 

"From the port of Wilmington on tide-water Cape Fear, to the central border of 
the northwestern tier of counties, comprising Ashe, Alleghany, Surry, Yadkin, Wilkes, 
Caldwell and Yancey, the air line is northwest, and on to connections with the com- 
mercial centres of the great Northwestern Empire of States, the route retains its north- 
west and southeast directions. 

" Such route is the Cape Fear & Yadkin Valley Railway enterprise, and in it cen- 
ters the only hope and all the possibilities of a North CaroHna system, with all that 
implies. 

" If there had not existed such a port as Wilmington, Governor Dudley would not 
have raved: But for Beaufort Harbor, the North Carolina Railroad would never have 
been designed or built. To the navigation of the Cape Fear and its outlet at Wilming- 
ton are we indebted for the Cape Fear & Yadkin Valley Railroad idea. 

"Few read history far enough back to know that the commerce of Wilmington — 
the direct foreign export trade — once exceeded that of the ports of Virgmia combined, 
or live to learn now that presently the vailable depth of water from the sea to Wilming- 
ton dock will be greater than the possibilities of New York Harbor, and as good as 
Norfolk. But such is sure, and it is soberly written. 

"It is on foot to build the Cape Fear Division to Wilmington; the South Carolina 
Extension is reaching out to Bennettsville precisely as Governor Dudley sought and 
recommended; and from Fayetteville the road is knocking at Greensboro's doors. The 
way is prepared for it to pass rapidly on to the mountain counties, and the day has al- 
most dawned for its direct and unbroken connection with Cincinnati. 

"It transverses the three great inter-State systems of transportation that dominate 
North Carolina; the Piedmont Air Line, the Atlantic Coast Line at Wilmington, and 
crosses the Seaboard Air Line at two points in different portions of the State. 

"The effect will be the regulation and cheapening of freights by a water transpor- 
tation standard of our own; Wilmington, and not West Point and Norfolk, will schedule 
the tariff of interior freights. 

"Scientific investigation and climatic observation have placed Wilmington next 
door to Florida. The vigorous climate of the Northwest is driving the population to 
seek milder winter homes, and the Cape Fear & Yadkin Valley Railway, with its North- 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 51 

western connections, will distribute people of the populous Northwestern States all 
along its temperate, mild and semi-tropic route, from the foot of the AUeghanies to 
the Atlantic Seaboard. 

"We relegate to the realms of speculation the sum total of all the advantages to 
be derived during future and all coming years of conditions like these. 

"No man can approximate the volumes, either of disclosed or hidden resources, in 
the sections of country tributary to the route of the Cape Fear & Yadkin Valley Rail- 
way, from Wilmington to the northwest corner of the State, and it is as useless to note 
present productions as to speculate on future outcomes. 

"With its tide-water division to Wilmington ; its southern extension tapping the rich 
cotton fields of South Carolina; its main stem running from the head of Cape Fear 
navigation to the mountain slopes of the Northwest counties; with connections across 
the AUeghanies to the States of the Upper Mississippi Valley; branches of the main 
stem to the busy nest of humming factories on Deep River in Randolph, to Danbury in 
Stokes, and to Paterson in Stokes, and to Patterson in Caldwell, the old, ardent inter- 
nal improvement masters in North Carolina could have outlined no more inviting picture ; 
no Moses of an era of progress and development, taking a last look at the promised land 
in a country loved so well, could choose an hour in which to, the more happily 

"'Draw the drapery of his couch about him, 
And lie down to pleasant dreams.' " 

CLINTON & POINT CASWELL RAILROAD. 

This is a railway projected from Point Caswell to Clinton, the county seat of Samp- 
son County, via Kerr's Landing and Hanell's Store, connecting the daily steamers from 
Point Caswell, on Black River, with Wilmington, twenty-eight miles distant, for the 
purpose of bringing the produce of Pender and Sampson Counties to this market. This 
road was chartered by the Legislature February, 1883, with a capital stock of $150,000. 
The charter requires that the road shall be completed within two years. 

A road is also being proposed to Stone's Bay, or Snead's Ferry, in Onslow County. 
Its length would have to be about thirty-four miles, and the road could be constructed 
and equipped for less than $200,000. It would pay a good dividend from the time of 
its completion, as it would have tributary to it the whole of the New River section, 
from the source of that stream to its mouth — a region which abounds in immense forests 
of timber, yet untouched so far as saw-milling is concerned, and easy of access at all 
points. 



OCEAN CARRYING TRADE AND SHIPPING INTERESTS. 



From what has already been said, it must be apparent to everyone that the City of 
Wilmington owes her present commercial importance to her shipping interests and 
ocean carrying trade, and upon the further enlargement and development of these 
interests must she depend, in a great measure, for continued prosperity and future 
progress. The foreign carrying trade of Wilmington is done mostly by Norwegian, 
German, Swedish and British vessels, ranking in number in about the order named. 
Vessels of all nations, however, enter this port. For the carriage of spirits of turpen- 
tine the smaller sailing vessels are much preferred ; those best suited for this trade being 
of from 275 to 300 tons registered. Their cargoes generally consist of from 1,000 to 
1,500 casks, and it is seldom that over 2,000 casks are carried. For other naval stores 



52 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 



vessels of from 250 to 500 tons are most in demand and deemed most suitable. For 
cotton the larger the vessels the more profitable the cargoes, and shipments of over 5,000 
bales have been successfully and easily made from Wilmington, during the present 
season, on steamers. A very great advantage possessed by Wilmington over all other 
ports is that foreign freight is offered here during the entire year, and so generally is 
this fact recognized in the maratime world that vessels from all parts of the globe, that 
have been unable to obtain cargoes elsewhere, come to this port for cargoes, some even 
from Africa and South America. During the winter season cargoes of cotton can 
almost always be obtained, and extensive shipments of lumber are constantly being 
made to the West Indies and South America. Being south of all the dangerous capes 
and shoals of the coast, vessels are subjected here to less loss of time and hazard, they 
are consequently enabled to make make more dispatch and incur less expense in the 
item of marine insurance. The bar below the city is much more easily crossed than 
that at Charleston, there being now an amply sufficient depth of water, and there is 
splendid anchorage at Smithville, which place is connected with Wilmington and all 
the world by telegraph and offers unsurpassed facilities as a port of call, but little light- 
erage is now required. As a port of refuge and convenience, Wilmington is situated at 
the most desirable intermediate point between the Northern and South Atlantic coasts, 
having all the advantages of both, and the disadvantages of neither. Vessels are here 
fully protected from all the winds that blow. The port of Wilmington is also well 
watered, and the Cape Fear River water has long been acknowledged as of superior 
quality for ship use on long voyages. A striking peculiarity about this water is its great 
benefit to vessels having iron or wooden hulls. It kills all barnacles and enables bot- 
toms to be easily cleaned of grass — being readily scraped off — and vessels entering 
with foul bottoms go out with them entirely cleaned by the action of the river water. 

The ocean carrying trade of Wilmington has already reached large proportions and 
with the improvement made in the river and harbor by the general Government, and 
the increased depth of water already obtained, and contemplated in the near future, is 
bound to become still greater. Some idea of its present importance may be gained 
from the fact that for the year ending June 30, 1883, the value of all exports by ocean 
commerce from this port reached $12,678,913, while the imports for the same period 
are estimated at from six and a half to eight and a half millions of dollars. The Custom 
House receipts range annually to from $75,000 to $100,000. A large increase in ton- 
nage has taken place in the last few months and there seems to be no present reason 
why the trade this year should not be in excess of that of any similar period since the 
war. 

The following is a carefully prepared statement of all vessels over 100 tons entered* 
and cleared at the port of Wilmington during the year ending January 1, 1884 : 

The following is a carefully prepared statement of all vessels over 100 tons en- 
tered and cleared at the Port of Wilmington during the year ending January 1, 1884 : 



January 

February . . 

March 

April 

May 

June 

July 

August 

September . 

October 

November.. 
December.. 



13S3- 



Steamers 



No. Tons. 



Totals.... 72 61,536 175 67,704 51 15.096 183 45,092 481 



7,159 
4,379 
3.380 
3,380 
4,223 
4,162 
4,227 
3,380 
7,613 
6.697 
6,002 
6,934 



Barks. 



No. Tons. 



Brigs. 



No. Tons. 



2,646 
1,843 

610 
1,155 

892 
2,178 

275 
1,457 

314 

236 
2,051 
1,439 



Schooners. 



No. Tons. 



5,249 
6,705 
2,088 
3,765 
4,650 
3,23'. 
3,249 
3,327 
1,540 
3,271 
3,873 
4,143 



Total 
Steam & Sail 



No. Tons. 



20,401 
22,292 

8,687 
15,823 
13,946 
14,213 

8,3.39 
12,052 
11,371 
15,594 
24,277 
22,433 



189,428 



WILMINGTON PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 



53 



The foreign consuls in Wilmington are as follows 



NAME. 


RANK. 


NATION. 


WHEN 
APPOINTED. 


Frederick J Lord 


Vice Consul 




May, 1843. 
1859. 


0. G. Parsley, Jr 


j Vice Consul 

'/ Consul 

Vice Consul 


Brazil 


Alexander Sprunt 

Jacob Loeb 


Great Britian 


March 31, 1866. 


France 


May 29, 1867. 
March 30, 1868. 


Wm. L . DeRossett 


Portugal 




( Norway 




R E Heide 


•1 Sweden 

( Denmark 

Argentine Republic 

Germany 

Hay ti 


Dec 10 1870 


George Harris 


Opfnber 1871 


Edouard Peschau 


Nov. 8, 1871. 


W. A. Gumming 


Dec. 7, 1874. 
March 1874 









COMMISSIONERS OF NAVIGATION AND PILOTAGE. 

The Commissioners of Navigation and Pilotage for the Cape Fear River and Bars 
were formerly elected by the qualified voters of the City of Wilmington, but in 1870 
the Leglislature of the State passed an act authorizing and requiring the Mayor and 
Aldermen of the City of Wilmington to appoint every year five persons, and the Mayor 
and Commissioners of the town of Smithville two persons, to serve as Commissioners 
of Navigation and Pilotage for the Cape Fear River and Bars, and providing that the 
seven persons so appointed should have power to do and perform all acts therefore 
authorized by law to be done by the Board of Commissioners of Navigation and 
Pilotage. The Commissioners have authority in all matters that may concern the navi- 
gation of the waters from seven miles above Negrohead Point downwards, and out of 
the bar; and with respect to throwing rubbish in the river at the City of Wilmington, 
and in the construction of wharves have concurrent jurisdiction with the Mayor and 
Aldermen of the city. 

The Commissioners are required to appoint a Harbor Master, and prescribe the 
duties of his office ; to make such rules and regulations for the Port of Wilmington, 
and respecting the duties of pilots, as they may deem most advisable, and to impose 
reasonable fines, forfeitures and penalties for the purpose of enforcing such rules and 
regulations. They are required to provide for the examination by nautical men, of 
apprentices who have served three years, and who desire to become pilots, and to issue 
commissions or branches to such as are found qualified to perform the duties of pilots, 
provided that there shall not be at any one time more than sixty-five river and bar pilots 
in commission. Three classes of licenses are required to be issued — one to pilot vessels 
whose draught of water does not exceed nine feet, one to pilot vessels whose draught 
does not exceed twelve feet, and one unlimited, or full license, to pilot vessels of any 
draught of water. 

Every person, before he obtains a branch to become a pilot, must give bond, with 
two sufficient sureties, in the sum of $500, pnyable to the State of North Carolina, for 
the faithful discharge of his duties. 

The number of pilots for the river and bars must not anv time be reduced below 
forty. 

The Commissioners are authorized to fix the rates of pilotage, provided they do not 
reduce them below the rates established in 1869. 

Pilotage is compulsory for all vessels of sixty tons burthen and over. 

The present number of pilots (sixty-five) is about equally divided between the bars 
and river. 

The Commissioners are required to regulate the number of apprentices, provided 
there shall not be less than twenty. During and since the war it has been impossible 
to comply with the provision of the law, there having been at no time since the war as 
many as twenty to serve, and now there are not more than three or four. 



54 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

A Harbor Master's fee, when no service is performed, is not compulsory ; but, by 
an order of the Commissioners, every vessel whose captain voluntarily pays the Harbor 
Master three dollars, on her arrival, is entitled to his services at all times while the 
vessel is in port, without further charge. 

If this fee is refused, and the vessel so refusing requires the Harbor Master's 
services, he is entitled to, and can collect, $5 for the first visit and $2.50 for every sub- 
sequent visit. 

The present Board consists of the following members : J. H. Chadbourn, chair- 
man; Donald McRae, D. G. Worth, R. E. Heide, Jas. Sprunt, Wilmington; Jno. R. 
Newton, J. T. Burriss, Smithville. 

The following are the Rules and Regulations of the Port of Wilmington, Revised and 
Adopted by the Board of Commissioners of Navigation and Pilotage, on September 18, 
1868, for the Government of the Port of Wilmington and River and Bars of the 
Cape Fear. 

Ordered: That hereafter all vessels arriving in this port, the master, agent or con- 
signee of which, shall voluntarily pay to the Harbor Master, the sum of three dollars, 
they may command, at all times, the services of said Harbor Master, as prescribed by 
the port regulations, without further charge, while the vessel shall remain in port ; but 
where such master, agent or consignee shall refuse to pay said amount of three dollars, 
the following fees are fixed, and shall be collected as provided in Revised Code, chap- 
ter 85, paragraph 3, page 461 : When called upon to perform any duty required by 
law or port regulations — for the first visit or performance of duty, five dollars, and for 
each subsequent visit to the same vessel, two dollars and fifty cents. — Adopted November 
11, 1869. 

1. All ballast, coal, or other substance calculated to injure the river, shall be 
safely placed not less than four feet from the cap of the wharf; and in delivering or 
landing, must be done under such precautions as to prevent the escape of any portion 
into the river, under the penalty of fifty dollars. No ballast or coal shall be discharged 
from any vessel, while in this port, after dark or before sunrise, under a penalty of one 
hundred dollars for each and every offense, to be paid by the captain. And no trash 
or substance calculated in any manner to injure the navigation, shall be thrown into the 
river, under a penalty of ten dollars, for each and every offence, to be paid by the party 
offending. 

2. All vessels crossing the bars, either in or out, or navigating the rivers from or to 
the sea, shall be required to pay full pilotage to the pilot offering his services, whether 
such craft be in tow or otherwise, and that any pilot neglecting or detaining a vessel 
under his charge unnecessarily, shall suffer the severest penalty ot the law. Ordered 

further, That any person without the authority of this Board, attempting to pilot a 
vessel, or charging for such service, shall pay a penalty of forty dollars. 

3. Any vessel hoisting her colors for a pilot, shall be compelled to pay the pilot 
offering his services full pilotage, whether such pilot be employed or not. 

4. When no pilot is in attendance, any person may conduct into port any vessel in 
danger from stress of weather or in a leaky condition ; but if any persons not duly 
qualified or licensed, shall presume to act as pilot under any other circumstances, he 
shall forfeit and pay forty dollars. 

5. No master of a vessel having a branch, or a mate with a branch, shall be com- 
pelled to take a pilot, said master or mate first having a permit from this Board for 
leave of absence. 

6. Every master of a vessel who shall detain a pilot after the time appointed, so 
that he cannot proceed to sea, though wind and water should permit, shall pay such 
pilot three dollars per day during the time of his actual detention ; and if any vessel, 
which shall be boarded by a pilot, without or within any of the inlets, shall, by violence 
of the weather or otherwise be driven to sea, the master or owner of such vessel shall 
allow and pay the pilot three dollars per day for every day he shall be on board, besides 
the fee of pilotage. 

7. All vessels at anchor, or under way, within the bars of Cape Fear River, at 
night, shall exhibit a light in some conspicuous place, at least ten feet above the deck, 



WILMINGTON — f AST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 55 

SO as to be seen by vessels or steamboats passing up or down the river, under a penalty 
of one hundred dollars for each and every neglect, and shall also be liable for all 
damages or the amount of injury sustained by any vessel or boat coming in contact, to 
be recovered for the benefit of the injured party. And it shall be the duty of the pilots 
to notify the master of each vessel coming over the bar of the existence of this order. 

8. No vessel shall anchor in the river, or extend her fasts as to interrupt the navi- 
gation of said river, or the passage of the ferry boats to and from their usual place of 
landing on either side of the river, under the penalty of fifty dollars for each and every 
offence, after notice from the Harbor Master. 

9. No vessel shall extend her hull, bowsprit, yards, rigging or fasts so as to 
interrupt the passage into or out of the public docks, under the penalty of five dollars 
for each and every hour said offence shall continue, after notice from the Harbor 
Master. 

10. No vessel that has discharged, or that is not engaged in discharging or taking 
on board a cargo, shall keep her place at any wharf, when, for the convenience of 
discharging or taking on board a cargo, said place may be required by any other vessel, 
under the penalty of fifty dollars for each and every day such offence shall continue. 

11. No vessel shall careen for the purpose of burning, cleaning or repairing, at 
any wharf within the limits of Wilmington, except at regular ship-yards, under a 
penalty of one hundred dollars for each and every offence. 

12. No master or commander of a vessel shall disobey or neglect such orders and 
directions as may be given by the Harbor Master, m times of gales of wind, relating to 
the safety of vessels in the harbor, under penalty of one hundred dollars for each and 
every offence, to be paid by the master or commander of said vessel. 

13. No vessel having on board grain, or articles evidently in a state of putrefac- 
tion, or offensive, shall haul to or lay at any wharf, but shall anchor in the middle of 
the river until the order of the Board shall be known, under the penalty of one hundred 
dollars for each and every hour said offence shall continue, after notice from the Harbor 
Master. Nor shall any vessel discharge offensive bilge water within the limits of the 
City of Wilmington, under a penalty of fifty dollars. 

14. No vessel shall lay at any wharf with her yards and booms otherwise trimmed 
than as the Harbor Master shall direct, under the penalty of fifty dollars for each and 
every day said offence shall continue, to be paid by the master or commander of said 
vessel. 

15. No vessel, whether loaded or empty, shall lay at anchor in the river opposite 
the city, between Mulberry and Castle streets, for more than twenty-four hours at one 
time, under a penalty of fifty dollars for each and every day said offence shall continue, 
after notice from the Harbor Master. 

16. If a branch pilot shall go off to any vessel bound in, and offer to pilot her over 
the bar, the master or commander of such vessel, if he refuses to take such pilot (except 
lawfully exempt,) shall pay such pilot lawful pilotage. 

17. When any pilot shall see any vessel on the coast, havig a signal for a pilot, or 
shall hear a gun of distress fired off the coast, and shall neglect or refuse to go to the 
assistance of such vessel, such pilot shall forfeit and pay one hundred dollars — one-half 
to the informer and the other half to the master ; unless such pilot is actually in charge 
of another vessel. 

18. The Board of Commissioners may designate the place whereat, within the 
waters of their control, may be cast and thrown ballast, trash, stones and such like 
matter ; and if any person shall cast or throw from any vessel into said waters, any 
such substances, likely to be injurious to the navigation, shall forfeit and pay two 
hundred dollars. And if any pilot shall knowingly suffer such unlawful act to be done, 
and shall not, within ten days thereafter, give information to some one of this Board, 
he shall be subject to the lawful punishment. 

19. Authority is vested in the Commissioners to hear and determine all matters of 
dispute between pilots and masters of vessels, or between the pilots themselves, respect- 
ing the pilotage of vessels — appeal in certain cases to be allowed. 

20. On arrival of any vessel at this port, it shall be the duty of the Harbor Master 
to go on board and deliver to the captain or officer in charge of such vessel, the port 



56 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE, 

regulations, under a penalty of ten dollars. 

21. Any pilot running a vessel ashore, by which means any injury or detention is 
sustained by such vessel, shall report the same, without delay, to the Chairman of this 
Board. 

22. No vessel under sixty tons shall be compelled to take a pilot or pay pilotage, 
unless a signal for a pilot shall be made. 

23. Any pilot intending to absent himself from his station for over twenty-four 
hours, shall communicate his intention to the Chairman, who may grant a permit, and 
he shall likewise make known his return, under a penalty of fifty dollars for such 
neglect. 

24. Should any hulk, raft, flat or other obstructive substance become sunken, from 
any cause, in the river, the same shall be immediately removed, under a penalty of five 
dollars for each and every day such nuisance shall remain, after notice from the Harbor 
Master, to be paid by the parties interested or concerned ; and in case exertions are 
not immediately made for the removal aforesaid, the Commissioners may exercise the 
discretion of using other means of abating the nuisance, even to the confiscation or 
condemnation of such obstructions. 

25. The Harbor Master shall have power to regulate all fires which are burnmg or 
kmdled on rafts, decks or flat boats, or lighters, and any owner or agent of the owner, 
refusing to obey the orders of the Harbor Master, shall be liable to a fine of fifty 
dollars for every violation. 

26. It shall be the duty of the Harbor Master to see that all raft frames be taken 
out of the water by persons landing wood or lumber, and it shall be the duty of the 
agent or inspector of said rafts to have the same done, when so ordered, or at all times, 
under a penalty of fifty dollars, 

27. Any person encumbering either of the public docks with logs, dilapidated 
hulks, or other trash or nuisance, shall forfeit and pay a fine of five dollars, if not re- 
moved immediately upon notice from the Harbor Master, and five dollars for every 
additional day the nuisance remains. And when the owner cannot conveniently be 
found, the Harbor Master shall take the most speedy method to clear the dock. 

28. The bar pilots shall be divided into classes of not less than four each, whose 
duty it shall be by turns to ascertain the depth of water at the several navigable points 
and to report to this Board by the first regular meeting in each month, being Tuesday 
— penalty for neglect, ten dollars. 

29. In all violation of these ordinances, wherein no forfeiture is specified, a penalty 
not exceeding fifty dollars may be imposed, according to the aggravation of the case. 

30. During the recess of the Board, the Chairman shall be empowered to try and 
determine all cases of delinquency occurring, and an appeal from his decision to this 
Board being allowed ; and all matters connected with the navigation and regulations of 
the port, during the recess of the Board shall be under his immediate supervision and 
control. 

31. No apprentice allowed to pilot any vessel drawing over six feet of water with- 
out permission from the Chairman of this Board. 

32. Any pilot, who, after having been notified for the purpose, shall fail to be on 
board any vessel at the time set for sailing, shaU forfeit and pay the Captain ten dollars 
for each day's delay, (unless at the time he shall have personal charge of some other 
vessel), and the further sum of one day's expense of such vessel. Pilots, however, may 
require advance pay for pilotage. 

33. Pilots navigating vessels into port, shall be entitled, exclusively, to navigate 
such vessel out of port, provided they be in attendance when the vessel is ready to sail ; 
otherwise, the Captain may employ any other suitable pilot. Any pilot or other person 
navigating a vessel contrary to the meaning of this regulation, shall forfeit and pay the 
injured pilot forty dollars. 

34. Neglect to repair dilapidated wharves shall subject the owners or parties inter- 
ested, after having been duly notified, to a fine of five dollars for each and every day's 
neglect to make such repairs. 

35. All flats, lighters or other boats or vessels, employed within the limits of the 
City of Wilmington, propelled wholly or in part by gigs or poles, are hereby prohibited 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 57 



from using upon the ends of said gigs or poles, any iron or other metal points so sharp- 
ened as to make indentation into wood. And any vessel, steamer or package of goods, 
receiving damage from the use of said gigs or poles, the owners or agent of the owners, 
or the flat or lighter, shall be liable for the full amount of damage arising therefrom. 
And any person or persons employed as crew of said flat or lighter, who shall violate 
this ordinance, shall,be fined not less than five dollars for each and every offence. 

36. Any^person casting loose or adrift, any flat, raft, or any raft of turpentine, or 
any boat or vessel, without the consent of the Harbor Master, had and obtained, shall 
be punished by a fine of ten dollars for each and every offence. One-half of the said 
fine shall, when collected, be paid to the person or persons giving the information to the 
Harbor Master. 

37. From and after this date, any person piling wood, or any other material or mer- 
chandise, in such manner as to prevent or obstruct the fastening of vessels at any piling 
or ringbolt, placed upon any wharf for the purpose of securing any vessel, shall forfeit 
five dollars for each and every hour said obstruction shall remain, after notice from the 
Harbor Master; said fines to be collected in the same manner as other fines imposed by 
this Board. 

All ordinances, \_rules or regulations, conflicting with those above specified, are here- 
by repealed. 

JAS. H. CHADBOURN, Chairman. 
Jos. Price, Harbor Master. 



Ordered by the Board of Commissioners of Navigation and Pilotage : 

That hereafter no pilot shall leave a vessel on the river without the consent of the 
Master, and when any detention shall occur, by fault of *;he Master of any vessel, the 
pilot shall be entitled to three dollars per day for every day so detained. 

When any vessel lying outside of the Rip, or at other exposed points, shall set her 
colors for a pilot, the regular pilot shall promptly answer her signal, or in his absence, 
some other pilot who has a branch, entitling him to take charge of such a vessel, shall 
proceed to her with all possible dispatch, and for such service shall receive five dollars 
per day until discharged by the Master. 

Services rendered by any other than the regular pilot, in answer to a signal, shall 
not deprive the regular pilot of his right to carry the vessel to sea when she is ready. 

Any pilot failing to carry out this order, shall be liable to such fine as the Board of 
Commissioners, after investigating the cause, may impose. 

JAS. H.;CHADBOURN, Chairman. 
February 17, 1874. 



58 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 



The following are the 



RATES OF PILOTAGE 



for the Cape Fear Bars and River, established on the 2d day of August, 1870, in ac- 
cordance with the existing acts of the Legislature of North Carolina, which went into 
operation August 10th, 1870 : 



BARS. 



Every vessel drawins: 6 feet and under Qhi feet $ 9 00 

" " " ■ 6M " " 7 " 9 75 

7 " " 71^ " 10 75 

lU " " 8 " 1150 

8 " " 8^" 12 00 

83^" " 9 " 12 75 

9 " " 9% " 13 50 

9K " " 10 " 14 50 

" 10 " " 10>^ " 15 25 

" lOM " " 11 " 17 00 

" 11 " " 113^ '• 18 50 

" nU '' " 12 •' 20 50 

" 12 " " 12^" 22 50 

" 123^" " 13 " 25 50 

" 13 " " 131^" 28 50 

" 131^" " 14 " 3100 

" 14 " " 143^ " 34 00 

" 141^" " 15 " 38 00 

" 15 " " 151^" 42 00 

" 151^" " 16 " 45 00 

" 16 " " 161^" 50 00 

" 163^" " 17 " 55 00 

" 17 " " 173^" 60 00 

•' 173^" " 18 " 65 00 

RIVER. 



From 

Smithville to 

Wilmington, 

and vice versa. 



From 

FiveFatlioni Hole 

to Wilmington, 

and vice versa. 



Every vessel drawing 6 feet 

U U U rj U 


and under 63^ feet 

" 7 " 


$ 9 50 
10 50 
12 00 

12 50 

13 00 

13 50 

14 00 

15 00 

16 00 

18 00 

19 75 
22 00 
24 00 
26 50 
29 00 
42 00 
35 00 
40 00 
44 00 


1 7 00 
8 00 


73^ " 


9 00 


:: :: :: r^: 
:: :: :: r^: 


" 8 " 


9 75 


SV2 " 

" 9 " 


10 25 
10 75 


" 914 •' 


11 25 


.< '4 " 10 


" 10 " 


12 25 


103^ " 


13 25 


" lOM " 
" 11 " 
" 11^ " 

a << w 12 " 


" 11 " 

IIK •' 

12 " 


14 50 

15 75 

16 75 


123^ " 


17 50 


" 12^8 " 

" 13 " 

" 13M " 
" 14 " 


13 " 

13K " 

" 14 " 


20 00 
22 25 
24 25 


143^ " 


26 25 


" uy " 

i< u w 15 


15 " 


28 25 


153^ " 


30 GO 









From Smithville to Brunswick, or from Brunswick to Wilmington, or vice versa, is 
one-half the pilotage from Smithville to Wilmington, From Smithville to Five Fathom 
Hole, from Five Fathom Hole to Brunswick, from Brunswick to Campbell's Island, 
from Campbell's Island to Wilmington, or vice versa, one fourth of the pilotage from 
Smithville to Wilmington : Provided, That vessels of 60 tons burthen, owned by the 
citizens of this State, shall not be required to take a pilot. 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 



59 




Alligator Captured in front of the City Measuring 10 1-2 feet. 



RIVER NAVIGATION. 



By means of several lines of steamboats, Wilmington is in direct communication 
with Fayetteville, at the head of navigation on the Cape Fear River, and with the in- 
terior of the State. Fayetteville is the county seat of Cumberland County, and an active 
and miportant business and manufacturing center. It commands the trade of the ad- 
jacent country, from which it receives the products of the pine forests. These are 
lumber, tar, rosin and turpentine, which, together with cotton, constitute the principal 
articles of export from Wilmington. From along the river, between Wilmington and 
Fayetteville, large quantities of naval stores are shipped to this port, constituting one of 
the principal sources of supplying this market. 

There is a daily packet up the river, and on some days of the week two boats leave 
this city for Fayetteville. 



FINANCIAL. 



There are but two banks in Wilmington, the Bank of New Hanover and the First 
National Bank of Wilmington, full descriptions of whose operations and condition will 
be found in another department of this work. The former has a capital of $300,000, 
and the latter of $250,000. They are both well managed and substantial institutions, 



60 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 



but at the same time, there is a growing demand for more banking capital in Wilming- 
ton. The general, we might say universal, opinion among business men seems to be 
that there is not sufficient banking capital here now to readily transact the large amount 
of business annually done. It is quite probable that an early day will witness the 
establishment of one or more financial institutions in the city. 



CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. 



The Wilmington Chamber of Commerce was organized September 11th, 1866, for 
the mutual interests of those engaged in mercantile pursuits, and for the purpose of in- 
stituting a uniform system for the government of trade and commerce, of adjusting 
amicably by arbitration causes of dispute, and of exercising a general supervision of all 
matters pertaining to the commercial interests of the port. 

In 1873, the organization of the Produce Exchange assumed control of certain 
branches of trade not fully provided for by the Chamber of Commerce; and on the 12th 
of June, 1873, the constitution of the latter body was amended in all points at conflict 
with the new organization. 

The following named gentlemen have served as Presidents of the Chamber : Wm. 
L. DeRossett, five years; Alfred Martin, two years; W. W. Harris, two years; A. H. 
Van Bokkelen, eight years. 

The present officers are as follows: A. H. Van Bokkelen, President; Edward 
Peschan, First Vice President; Donald MacRae, Second Vice President; John L. 
Cantwell, Secretary and Treasurer. 

Executive Council— R. E. Heide, George Harris, H. C. McQueen, J. H. Chad- 
bourn, W, Calder and Roger Moore, (President Produce Exchange). 



PRODUCE EXCHANGE. 



The Wilmington Produce Exchange was organized in April, 1873, and incorporated 
in September of the same year. It consists of an association of the leading capitalists, 
merchants and business men of the city, who, with broad and liberal views of what is 
best tended to promote the general interests and welfare of the community, will ever be 
found ready to adopt every legitimate means calculated to spread abroad the intelligence 
of the present advantages and future possibilities of the City of Wilmington as a great 
commercial and manufacturing center and important distributing point. Its progressive 
sprit has infused additional Ufe and activity into the business of the city from its very 
beginning. The important influence exerted by institutions of this character upon the 
material interests of the municipalities in which they are established, and the manifold 
advantages which accrue from such organizations cannot be over-estimated by merchants, 
manufacturers and business men generally, and may be briefly summed up as follows : 
By joint and concerted action they have a tendency to foster and develop the commer- 
cial, manufacturing and general business interests of a community, and by providing 
for the collection, preservation and dissemination of statistical and reliable information 
concerning the same, they furnish to the world at large reports of the most valuable 
character, which, under ordinary circumstances, are obtainable in no other way. They 
serve to assist in the removal of obstacles, either natural or artificial, tending to impede 
the city's progress or growth, and maintain a vigilant watch over all schemes which may 
in any way tarnish the good name or commercial honor and integrity of the community. 
They also assist in adjusting, as far as possible, the controversies and misunderstandings 
which are liable to arise between parties engaged in trade, avoiding the expense and 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 



61 




CITY HALL AND OPERA HOUSE. 



delays of litigation, and generally aid by all lawful and legitimate means, the encourage- 
ment and protection of home interests, of whatever nature and description. They also 
form the connecting link with similar institutions in the sister cities of the Union for 
the purposes indicated above. 

The following named gentlemen have served as President of the Exchange since 
its organization : D. R. Murchison, D. G. Worth, C. H. Robinson, R. E. Calder, 
James Sprunt and Roger Moore. 

The present officers. Board of Managers and standing committees are as follows : 
Roger Moore, President, J. H. Currie, Vice President, John L. Cantwell, Secretary 
and Treasurer. 

BOARD OF MANAGERS. 

H. C. McQueen, B. F. Hall, A. M. Green, R. E. Calder, A. Martin. 

STANDING COMMITIEES. 

Arbitration.— D. G. Worth, A. J. DeRossett, Alex. Sprunt, John Woody. 

Finance. — R. E. Calder, B. F. Hall, Jno. L. CantweU. 

Law. — H. C. McQueen, Alfred Martin. 

Information and Statistics. — C. H. Robinson, H. Johnson, R. E, Heide. 

Marine. — James Sprunt, E. Peschan. C. P. Mebane. 

Inspeciion.— A. H. VanBokkelen, R. H. Love, B. G. Worth. 

Cotton Classification. — A. H. Greene, E. Lilly, R. W. Hicks. 

Cotton (Quotations.)— Wm. Calder, S. R. Birdsey. 

Naval Stores (Quotations )— C. H. Robinson, W. W. Harriss, D. G. Worth, 



62 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

Membership. — W. R. Kenan, Jno. L. Rankin, G. J. Boney. 

The Board of Managers meet on the first Tuesday of each month. 

The stock reports and other statistics required by the Exchange are prepared by 
the Secretary, Col. John L. Cantwell, a gentleman whose long experience, remarkable 
accuracy and corteous and agreeable deportment, eminently fit him for the responsible 
and important position he occupies, and the writer here takes occasion to acknowledge 
the many kindnesses and valuable assistance received at his hands. 



MANUFACTURING ADVANTAGES. 



We truly believe that it needs no argument at our hands, in view of what has 
elsewhere been said, to convince those who are engaged in a search for a desirable 
place of location, that Wilmington, regarded from every point, is a highly favored city, 
and it needs no additional proof that it is in every respect a center of wealth, popula- 
tion and intelligence. The importance of the manufacturing advantages and resources 
of the city cannot be overestimated, and our purpose in publishing this work has not 
been merely to advertise the individuals and firms, an account of whose enterprises 
appear elsewhere, but has rather been, as far as possible, to call the attention of capital- 
ists and those contemplating a change of residence, to the great natural resources and 
excellent opportunities here presented to those wishing to embark in almost any branch 
of trade and manufacture. It is specially with reference to her manufactures that this 
city is destined to become one of the greatest commercial and industrial centers in the 
South, and it is hoped that the outline of the vast resources of this community which 
has been set forth in these pages will have, to some degree at least, the effect of direct- 
ing the attention of the general public, and of merchants, manufacturers and capitalists 
all over the country to the superiority of this locality and thus attract increased popula- 
tion and additional wealth. We do not claim, nor would it be reasonable to expect, 
that in this brief space to which we are necessarily limited, every interest receives 
entire and complete justice, but we trust we may have been able to present some intel- 
ligent outline of the resources and industries of the city and her outlook for the future. 

The great essentials for success in manufacturing industries are an adequate local 
supply of raw material, cheapness of fuel for manufacturing purposes, easy and convenient 
means of carriage, centrality of position and accessibility to the markets of the world. 
The power of distribution is in itself, perhaps, the chief advantage, for without it the 
ability to produce cheaply and copiously would be of little worth. It stands in the same 
relation to the producer that the ability to send out his crops readily to the best market 
does to the agriculturist. All these essentials that we have mentioned, and other advan- 
tages upon which we have not now time to dwell, are possessed by this city in an 
eminent degree. Wilmington not only possesses the advantages of position we have 
mentioned, but combines with it such a comprehensive system of ocean, river and 
railroad tran.'^portation, that there is probably no city on the South Atlantic coast 
possessed of equal advantages. Her harbor is a favorite one with vessels from all parts 
of the world, and her ocean commerce is rapidly increasing in both value and im- 
portance. All parts of the civilized world pay her tribute. Her railroads and river 
also play an important part in giving her commercial prominence as a city. 

With reference to motive power for her factories, the city is most advantageously 
situated. The Cape Fear River with its affluents, by careful estimates, gives a water 
power equal to about 135,000 horse power, while the abundance of wood furnished by 
neighboring forests and wooded sections of the surrounding country make it exceed- 
ingly cheap and useful as a fuel for steam power and heating purposes. Coal is found 
in abundance at the mines in Chatham county, and will in a short time be placed at low 
figures in this market. The mineral resources of the State are very great, but as yet 
have not been developed to any considerable extent. Cotton, tobacco, wool, and all 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 63 



cereals are easily obtained cheaply and in abundance. In the reception of material the 
same advantages are enjoyed by this city as in the distribution of it, producing in the 
combination of lessened expense, of reception in crude forms and of re-distribution in 
finished shapes, a great general advantage not to be too highly valued, and one at all 
times powerful in holding position against competition. 

There are at the present time abundant openings in Wilmington for manufacturing 
enterprises, which will not fail to be highly remunerative if properly conducted. 

To the capitalist desirous of investing money, the mechanic of employing skill, and 
the merchant of exerting ability and enterprise in the distribution of manufactured pro- 
ducts, a closer and personal examination of the subjects treated of in this volume, will 
undoubtedly prove advantageous. The writer has before him the expressed opinions 
of nearly two hundred of the businessmen of the city, who unanimously express the opin- 
ion that there is here both business and a demand for almost anv kind of manufactures. 



COTTON. 



It goes without saying that cotton takes the lead of all other agricultural products, 
not only in this State, but in the entire South, both in the quantity produced and its 
value. This most useful staple, from its adaptability to the manufacture of so many 
articles, both for utility and ornament, presents a most interesting record of agricultural 
achievement, and is, indisputably, the most potent ruler of the vegetable kingdom, 
wielding in its might and power a scepter of unlimited influence. Wilmington is natu- 
rally the receiving point of cotton for export for a vast area of country, including not 
only North Carohna, but also parts of Georgia and South Carolina. By a comprehen- 
sive railroad system, the city is also the most convenient entrepot for the product of a 
very large section of the great cotton growing districts of the South. Geographically, 
Wilmington is on an almost direct line with Memphis, now the largest inland cotton 
market in the world, and by the completion of the system of railroads through the 
nountain ranges in the western part of the State, affords direct ocean communication to 
Tennessee and Arkansas, and Northern Alabama and Mississippi. As a port Wilmington 
now compares favorably with other Southern cities, and will in a short time be the 
equal of any, and the superior of many. Vessels loading to a draught of over eighteen 
feet can lighten a portion of their cargoes at small expense and with little detention. 
The city is already a iavorite port with vessels of all nations, and during the present 
season foreign vessels of 1,700 tons burden, loaded with cotton, have left the city and 
successfully reached the ocean without difficulty. In October last a shipment of cotton, 
consisting of 5,030 bales, was easily made on a steamer, drawing 14.9 feet — the passage 
being made at high tide. 

Wilmington is proverbially a cheap port, and presents a river frontage of over 
three miles. Dock and wharf accomodations are excellent ; the cotton compresses are 
as powerful as any in the United States, and have warehouses attached capable of safely 
storing many thousand bales; the facilities enjoyed for loading are unsurpassed ; port 
charges are exceedingly moderate, there being no harbor or wharf dues to pay, with 
the exception of a small Harbor Master's fee, and first-class stevedores are cheaply and 
easily obtained. As will be seen by reference to our article on Harbor and Riyer 
Improvements, a depth of eighteen feet of water will be obtained in the next twelve 
months between the city and ocean, which will eventually be increased to from twenty- 
four to twenty-six feet — such increase being practicable at moderate cost. In view, 
then, of these extraordinary advantages and facilities, Wilmington is clearly able to hold 
out more favorable inducements as a cotton shipping point to both foreign and coast- 
wise vessels and to shippers, than almost any other Southern port. The beneficial 
influence of these great advantages has already been strongly felt, and to-day this city 
ranks as one of the most important cotton receiving and distributing points in the 
country. 



64 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE 



Some idea of the extent of the cotton exports of the United States can be gained 
from the fact that, according to the census of 1880, there was only 23.04 per cent, of 
the entire crop for the calendar year af 1879 retained for home consumption — 76.96 per 
cent, being exported to foreign countries. The entire crop for that year was 5,737,257 
bales, of which North Carolina produced 389,598 bales. The quality of the cotton 
raised throughout the State is similar to that of South Carolina and Georgia, that grown 
in Montgomery County, and Anson, Richmond and Union Counties, on the line of the 
Carolina Central Railroad being superior to that of any other section of the State, and 
the best upland cotton in the world. According to the United States Census, (crop 
year 1879), the cotton acreage of North CaroUna was 893,153 acres, producing 389,- 
598 bales. The average product per acre in the fraction of a bale of 475 pounds, was 
.44 of a bale, or more per acre than in the States of Georgia, Texas, Alabama, South 
Carolina and Florida, and about the same as in Mississippi and Tennessee, which each 
show .46. There were used during the same year 27,508 bales for home consumption 
m the State by cotton mills — the mills that year running 102,767 spindles and 1,960 looms. 
Since then, as is well known, there has been a great increase in North Carolina, in com- 
mon with the whole South, in cotton manufacturing. For the year ending March 31st, 
1883, the receipts of cotton at this port were 128,466 bales, while for the year preced- 
ing they reached 137,732 bales ; but this falling off furnishes no criterion of the business 
of this market, as during a considerable part of the season there were no freight vessels 
offering here, and consequently nearly all shipments from this market were made by 
steamer, via New York, at rates which greatly lessened the volume of the business. By 
an inspection of the following table it will be seen that there was an almost steady in- 
crease from 1873-74, when the receipts were only 43,070 bales, to 1881-82, when 137,- 
732 bales were received : 

TABLE OF RECEIPTS AT WILMINGTON FOR YEARS ENDING MARCH 31sT, 1873-83. 

1873-74 43,070 

1874-75 81,854 

1875-76 91,589 

1876-77 ■ • • 121 ,929 

1877-78 , 120,975 

1878-79 111,798 

1879-80 78,345 

1880-81 116,876 

1881-82 137,732 

1882-83 128,466 

On account of this scarcity in the matter of tonnage, during the period mentioned, 
there was a large falling off in receipts from the interior for foreign shipment in 1882-83 ; 
and it is but fair to presume that, under the usual favorable circumstances, the business 
for the year would have been fully equal to that of the year previous. The receipts for 
the week ending February 16, 1884, (the date of this writing), foot up 1,094 bales, as 
against 3,773 bales for same date last year, a decrease for the week of 2,679. The re- 
ceipts for the crop year to date amount to 86,359 bales, as against 111,709 bales to same 
date last year, a decrease so far this year of 25,350 bales. This falling off is entirely 
due to the shortness of the crop. For the cotton year ending September 1, 1883, the 
total cotton exports from Wilmington amounted to 126,749 bales, of which 68,987 were 
domestic and 57,762 foreign. For the same period the year before, total exports 137,- 
708 bales— domestic 73,875, foreign 63,833. 

The following table gives the destination and totals of both foreign and domestic 
exports for the cotton years of 1880, '81, '82 and '83, together with the average price 
each year of midling upland : 

DOMESTIC. 




New York 

Sundry, via Railroads 

Burnt 

Local Consumption. . . 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 



65 



FOREIGN. 



DESTINATION. 


1883. 


1882. 


1881. 


1880. 


Amsterdam 


2.'l4d 
950 

'i,m 

1,500 

48,372—57,762 
68,987 


"i,536 

7,289 

"i,43() 

53,584—63,833 
73,875 

137,708 


1,209 
'7,219 

'7,870 

i,'647 
1,753 
1 111 
49^268— 69,810 
50,032 


3,551 

'4.'547 

2,020 

2 


Barcelona 


Cranstad c 


Christiana 


Channel, for orders 


1,195 


Genoa 


Ghent 




Hamburg 


1,526 
1 177 


Havre 


Liverpool 


22,668—36,586 
41,762 


Summary of Domestic 




Total Domestic and Foreign 


126.749 


119.842 


78,348 




105^0. 


lie. 


lO'/zC. 


liygC. 



It will be observed that the local consumption has increased from 644 bales in 1880, 
to 743 bales in 1883. It will further be seen that there is an extensive and increasing 
trade established by the City of Wilmington with the principal European ports direct, 
and that both as a market for the foreign and domestic export of cotton the city occu- 
pies a prominent and important position among the leading cities of the world. 

It is but natural that a trade so important in its proportions should exert a powerful 
influence upon the general welfare of this community, and upon all other branches of 
the commerce of the city. Its encouragement is essential to the continued growth and 
prosperity of the city. Its features are so varied that it would be a difficult undertak- 
ing to set them forth in detail clearly and accurately, but in their proper place we shall 
endeavor lo describe such of the interests connected with this branch of commercial 
pursuit as will enable the reader to form some intelligent idea of the magnitude of the 
whole. 

We call special attention to the sketches of the Wilmington Cotton Mills, Wilming- 
ton Compress and Warehouse Company and the Champion Cotton and Warehouse Com- 
pany. The total yearly transactions of the different firms and individuals engaged in 
the various branches of the trade are included in the general summary of the trade and 
"commerce of the city, which will be found on another page. 



NAVAL STORES AND TURPENTINE PRODUCTS. 



The term naval stores in general acceptation is an exceedingly comprehensive one, 
but as it is commercially used and understood embraces only those products of turpen- 
tine known as sprits, rosin, tar, pitch and crude turpentine. American turpentine 
is chiefly obtained from the "long-leaved" pine which is abundant on the coast of the 
Carolinas and Georgia, in the upper portions of Florida and the lower belt of Alabama 
nnd Mississippi. 

Spirits, or oil of turpentine, is the volatile oil distilled from turpentine. What is 
called Venice turpentine is obtained in Southern Europe from the larch, or larix 
Europea ; it is a ropy liquid of a transparent, brownish or greenish color, and has a 
bitter taste. 

Rosin is the residum from the distillation of turpentine when it is freedj of the 
spirits of turpentine and water which it contains. Tar is procured by burning the wood 
of the ** long-leaved" pine in kilns so constructed that the tar is extracted from the 
wood without being consumed — it running from the bottom in a liquid state. The res- 
idum is charcoal. What is known to commerce as navy pitch remains after the oil has 
been extracted from tar, and this was formerly the only way of obtaining it. It is now 



66 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

produced, however, by a combination of tar with dark rosins. There are also several 
grades of pitch manufactured from other materials. 

Crude turpentine is procured by cutting, during the winter, a hollow receptacle, 
called a box, in the lower part of the tree. During the spring and summer the pores 
of the sappy portion of the tree are opened weekly by a slight cutting, which enables 
the turpentine to exude and run into the box, from which it is dipped and placed in 
barrels for transportation to the distilleries. Whatever remains during the autumn 
hardened on the face or side of the tree has to be scraped off and is sometimes added 
to the last runnings, but is generally put in separate barrels and sent to market as 
scrapings. 

But before proceeding further with our subject, it would, doubtless, interest our 
readers to learn some of the leading facts as regards the establishment and early foun- 
dation of the naval stores trade, generally. There are a great many who possess no 
knowledge on the subject whatever, and still others who may be practically acquainted 
with its commercial bearings and importance, who know but little, if anything, of its 
history. 

Previous to 1820 the production of turpentine was very small, being confined to 
the region of North Carolina embraced between the Cape Fear River on the South, and 
the Tar River on the North, the shipping depots being Wilmington, Newbern and 
Washington. Distillation was done to a very small extent, and in iron stills upon plans 
very different from the present mode. Most of the products went to Northern ports, 
where some little was distilled, and the balance was shipped to Great Britian in the 
crude state. Up to 1836 the getting of turpentine was confined to a space between 
the two above named rivers, and within twenty-five miles of the shipping ports alluded 
to above; the quantity produced being sufficient for the consumption of this country 
and for export to Great Britian. In 1834 great improvements were made in distillation 
by the use of copper stills, when the product was increased, and new distilleries were 
erected at shipping points. In 1836 the manufacture of India rubber goods caused a 
new demand for spirits of turpentine, increasing its value greatly, and creating a 
demand for new territory near shipping points. Up to this time it was considered that 
the country on the west and south sides of the Cape Fear River would not yield tur- 
pentine. A test being made in 1837, the error was discovered, and the business 
extended rapidly in that direction. After 1840 many of the operators left the old region 
to operate in the new. Up to 1844 no distilling was done away from the shipping 
points, all turpentine being sent in from the country in the crude state , and was manu- 
factured about as follows : one-fourth in North Carolina, one-fourth in Northern cities, 
and one-half in Great Britian. Some spirits of turpentine was used for illuminating 
purposes as early as 1832, in mixture with high-proof alcohol, and called spirit gas. 
About 1842 rectified spirits of turpentine began to be used largely as an illuminator 
under the names of camphene, pine oil, etc. The mixture with alcohol was furnished 
under various new names, and at cheaper rates when the patent right expired, and was 
the cheapest light known until the discovery of petroleum, which has entirely dis- 
placed it. 

The increased demand for spirits of turpentine caused the production to increase, 
and the gathering extended to States south, embracing South Carolina, Georgia, Flor- 
ida, Alabama and Mississippi. The quantity of rosin produced exceeded the demand, 
and was not worth the cost of handling, even at the ports. This caused distilling to be 
done as near producing points as possible, which carried into the country numerous 
distilleries. Previous to 1846 the tariff of Grea t Britian was such as to exclude im- 
ports of spirits of turpentine and rosin, but when free trade was established in spirits 
and rosin, as well as crude turpentine, shipments were made of all grades ; the manu- 
facturers increasing, and the crude decreasing, up to 1861, when business became 
closed by the breaking out of the war. Upon the opening of business in 1865, there 
was some stock on hand of spirits and rosin in the South, which, with the old crude on 
hand, constituted the business until the new crop of 1866 came into market, since which 
time the production has continued regularly, but did not at anytime prior to 1875 reach 
an amount equal to 1860, the many uses of the product of petroleum, where spirits of 
turpentine had before only answered, having reduced the demand, and caused prices in 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 67 

some localities to be unremunerative, especially in those off from railroads or rivers, the 
hauling being too expensive. 

Turpentine has been, and is produced to some extent, in the northern districts of 
France, from which source Europe obtained its supplies during the years 1863-4, and 
in 1865, after the supplies of America had been exhausted. The trade with Europe, 
previous to 1861, was done mostly by way of New York. Now almost all of the foreign 
consumption is supplied by direct shipment, experience having proved that to be the 
most economical course. The distillation of turpentine has ceased in Europe outside 
of France ; also in the States north of North Carolina, and excepting the small portion 
distilled at some of the ports in North Carolina, all supplies come now from the country 
as spirits and rosin. At present the prices of naval stores are low, having felt the effect 
of the late general depression in prices, but is to be hoped that there is a better future 
for business generally, in which event this branch will share the benefit. The product 
of the spirits of turpentine and rosm for the crop year of 1876 in the United States in 
round numbers was about 300,000 casks of spirits and 1,500,000 barrels, of 280 pounds, 
of rosin. In 1880 it had increased to 350,000 casks of spirits and 1,750,000 barrels of 
rosin, and in 1883 to 400,000 casks of spirits and 2,000,000 birrels of rosin. This 
would not be in excess of consumption in years of general prosperity. The Franco 
Prussian war interfered with the production of naval stores in France, causing the 
supply for 1871 from that quarter to run short. This created a speculation and put 
prices much above the regular rates, causing an excess of production. There has been 
no recovery from this up to the present time. 

In this State as trees have from time to time become exhausted of turpentine they 
have been cut into sawmill timber, for which purpose persons of experience claim that 
they do as well, if not better, than others. On lines of railroads these trees have been 
used for cord-wood and other purposes. The land cleared up produces as good crops 
agriculturally as if the trees had not been worked. Some of the most thriving counties 
in North Carolina, where this business originated, are now agriculturally the richest and 
most prosperous. Some even contend that it is advantageous to work the timber off the 
land, and none with experience believe the land damaged for agricultural purposes. It 
may be interesting to the reader to understand how turpentine products are procured 
from the tree. We therefore attempt a brief description. 

The original product of the pine is of two sorts— turpentine and tar. Turpentine 
is the sap of the tree obtained by making incisions in its trunk. It begins to exude 
about the middle of March, when the circulation commences, and flows with increasing 
abundance as the weather grows warmer, so that May and June are the most productive 
months. When the circulation is slackened by the chills of autumn, the operation is 
discontinued, and the remainder of the year is occupied in preparatory labors for the 
following season. The first thing to be done is the making of the boxes. This is done 
m January and February, in the base of each tree, about three or four inches from the 
ground, and of preference on the south side. A cavity is formed, commonly of the 
capacity of two pints, but proportioned to the size of the trunk, of which it should oc- 
cupy a quarter of the diameter; on stocks of more than six feet in circumference, two 
and sometimes four boxes are made on opposite sides. Next comes the raking, or the 
cleaning of the ground at the foot of the trees from leaves and herbage. Cornering is 
merely making at the sides of the box two oblique gutters, about three inches long, to 
conduct into it the sap that exudes from the edges of the wound. In the interval of a 
fortnight which is employed in this operation, the first boxes beconrie filled with sap. 
An iron paddle or rather dipper is used to transfer it to pails, which in turn are emptied 
into casks placed at convenient distances. To increase the product, the upper edge of 
the box is chipped once a week, the bark and a portion of the sap-wood being removed 
to the depth of one-half an inch. The boxes fill every three weeks, and the turpentine 
thus procured is the best. It is called pure dipping, or virgin. 

The chippings extend the first year eighteen inches above the box to remove the sap 
coagulated on the surface of the wound. The closing of the pores, occasioned by 
continued rains sometimes, exacts the same remedy ; and it is to be remarked that the 
product is less abundant in moist and cool seasons. After five or six years the tree is 
abandoned. 



68 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

It is reckoned that forty boxes yield a barrel containing 320 pounds. A single 
hand can hack 10,500 boxes, others only 8,000, which is considered an easy task. In 
general 10,500 trees yield, in ordinary years, 200 barrels of dip turpentine and 50 o* 
scraping, the first year, which supposes the boxes to be emptied six or seven times in the 
season. The scraping is a coating of sap which becomes solid before it reaches the 
boxes, and which is taken off in the fall. 

In November, 1807, turpentine was sold at Wilmington at $3 a barrel of 320 
pounds, gross. 

A great deal of spirits of turpentine has been made in North Carolina for many 
years. It is obtained by distilling the turpentine in large copper retorts, and light 
barrels of crude turpentine (pure dipping), now yield one cask of forty-eight gallons 
spirits. In 1804 the exports of spirits from North Carolina amounted to 19,526 gallons ; 
they now amount to over 5,300,000 gallons. It is shipped to all parts of the United 
States and Europe, and is preferred to the French as being less odorous. The residum 
of the distillation, as we have said before, is rosin. The exportation of this substance 
has increased from 4,675 barrels in 1804 to over 550,000 barrels. All the tar made in 
the Southern States is from the dead wood of the long-leaved pine, consisting of limbs 
and trees prostrated by time or other causes. As soon as vegetation ceases in any part 
of the tree, its consistence speedily changes ; the sap decays, and the heart already im- 
pregnated with resinous juice, becomes surcharged to such a degree as to double its 
weight in a year; the accumulation is said to be much greater after four or five years. 
This general fact may be proved by comparing the wood of trees recently felled, and 
of others long since dead. To produce the tar, a kiln is formed in a part of the forest 
abounding in dead wood ; this is first collected, stripped of the sap, and cut into billets two 
or three feet long and about three inches thick — a task rendered long and difficult by 
knobs. The next step is to prepare a place for piling it. For this purpose a circular 
mound is raised, shghtly declining from the circumference to the center, and surrounded 
with a shallow ditch. The diameter of the pile is proportioned to the quantUy of wood 
it is to receive — to obtain 100 barrels of tar it should be eighteen or twenty feet wide. 
In the middle is a hole with a conduct leading to the ditch, in which is formed a recep- 
tacle for the tar as it flows out. Upon the surface of the mound, beaten hard and 
coated with clay, the wood is laid around in a circle. The pile, when finished, may be 
compared to a cone truncated at two-thirds of its height, and reversed, being twenty 
feet in diameter below, twenty-five or thirty feet above, and ten or twelve feet high. It 
is then strewed with pine leaves, covered with earth, and contained at the sides with a 
slight cincture of wood. This covering is necessary in order that the fire kindled at 
the top may penetrate to the bottom with a slow and gradual combustion. If the whole 
mass was rapidly inflamed, the operation would fail, and the labor in part be lost. In 
fine, nearly the same precautions are exacted in this process as are observed in Europe 
in making charcoal. A kiln which is to afford from 100 to 130 barrels of tar is eight 
or nine days burning. As the tar flows off into the ditch it is dipped into barrels made 
of the same species of wood. 

Pitch is tar reduced by evaporation, and should not be diminished beyond twenty 
per cent, of its bulk to be of good quality. It is now made principally by a combina- 
tion of tar and dark rosins. For the year ending January 1, 1884, 8,112 barrels of 
pitch were exported from Wilmington, against 7,965 for the year previous, an increase 
of 147 barrels. 

It has lately been contended by several cities that they had outstripped Wilmington 
as a naval store market. That their claims are utterly without foundation is evidenced 
by the following table, which shows this city to be now, as it has always been in the 
past, the largest naval stores market in the world : 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AN'D FUTURE. 



69 



COMPARATIVE STATEMENT. 



STOCKS. 



RECEIPTS. 



STOCKS — END OF THE NAVAL STORES YEAR. 



RECEIPTS — NAVAL STORES YEAR 1882-83. 



SEPTEMBER 1, 1883. 


Spirits. 


Rosin. 


Tar. 


Crude. 


Totals. 


Wilmington, N. C 

NewYork,N.Y 

Charleston, S. C 

Savannah, Ga 


7,646 
2,380 
4,043 
13,.506 


83.132 
34,8.59 
40,661 
75,463 


1,328 
961 


610 


92,716 
38,200 
44,704 
88,969 



YEAR ENDED AUGUST 31, 1883. 


Spirits. 


Rosin. 


Tar. 


Crude. 


Totals. 


Wilmington, N. C 

Charleston , S. C 


84,767 
71,230 
115,615 
19,060 
40,044 


425,775 
301,618 
421,361 
74,580 
170,421 


72,694 


63,881 


647,117 

.372,848 
536,976 


Brunswick, Ga 

Mobile, Ala 


93,640 
210,465 



APRIL 1st, 1883. 


Spirits. 


Rosin. 


Tar. 


Crude. 


Totals. 


Wilmington, N. C 


2,877 
2,635 
1,613 
2,4.37 


74,670 
16,8.51 

28.765 
46,678 


10,645 
1,232 


2,525 


90,718 


New York, N. Y 

Charleston, S. C 


•?0,718 
30,377 


Savannah, Ga , 


49.115 



YEAR ENDED APRIL 1st, 1883. 


Spirits. 


Rosin. 


Tar. 


Crude. 


Totals. 


Wilmington, JM. C 

Charleston, S. C 

Savannah, Ga 


88,186 
72,052 
88,1.53 


433,200 
299,.567 
390,287 


73,598 


68,574 


663,.558 
371,619 
478,440 



EXPORTS. 



YEAR ENDED AUG. 1883. 


Spirits. 


Rosin . 


Tar. 


Crude. 


Pitch. 


Totals. 


Wilmington, N. C i 

Charleston, S. C vforeign. 

Savannah, Ga \ 

Wilmington, N. C 

Charleston, S. C v domestic. 

Savannah, Ga ) 

Slesfon"fe^C^ iTotal foreign 

sSnS'Ga.'^::::::::::.-:::::::: f & domestic. 


49.330 
46,478 
.53,228 
31,297 
18,818 
.51,142 
80,627 
65,296 
104,370 


359,941 
221,189 
144,063 
73,774 
.58,469 
266.396 
433,715 
279,658 
410,4.59 


16,964 
48',.569 
6,5',.533 


712 
9",343 
10,6.5.5 


6 

7',878 
7,884 


426.9.53 
267,667 
197.291 
170,861 
77,287 
317,,5;« 
597,814 
.344,9.54 
514,829 


CROP YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 1883. 


Spirits. 


Rosin. 


Tar. 


Crude. 


Pitch. 


Totals. 


Wilmington, N. C ) 

Charleston, S. C vforeign. 

Savannah, Ga ( 

Wilmington, N. C j 

Charleston, S. C vdomestic. 

Savannah, Ga j 

Wilmington, N. C l t,^j.„, „„ ,^„ 

Charleston, S. C ^^™^*I^St^'' 

Savannah, Ga f & dome.stic. 


54,483 
54,883 
37,340 
32,.567 
17,188 
49,454 
87,058 
72,071 
' 86,794 


384,534 
205,6;?4 
109,670 
98,918 
89,.509 
303,.500 
483,452 
295,143 
413.170 


23,297 
52',24i 

75',.538 


692 
2',496 
3,188 


6 
7',794 
7',806 


463,012 
260,.517 
147,010 
194,016 
106,697 
3.52,9.54 
657,028 
367,214 
499,964 



I^EC.^^IT-Cri^-A-1'IOiT. 



WILMINGTON AND SWANNAH. 



[Year ended August 31, 1883.] 

Excess in Favor of Wilmington STOCKS. 3,747 

" " " RECEIPTS, 100,131 

" " " EXPORTS, 82,985 



[Year ended March 31, 1883.] 

Excess in favor of Wilmington STOCKS. 41,602 

RECEIPTS, 185,118 

" " " EXPORTS, 151,064 



70 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 



The yearly re';eipts of spirits, rosin, tar and crude at this market for the crop 
years 1878-9 to 1882-3, inclusive, are given in the following table : 

SPIRITS. ROSIN. TAR. CRUDE. 

(casks) (bbls) (bbls) (bbls) 

Received *Crop 1882 andl883 *88,186 433,200 73,598 68,574 

" 1881 and 1882 85,916 454,917 68,653 87,486 

" 1880 and 1881 t87,107 444,552 56,460 92,101 

" 1879 and 1880 103,671 568,188 45,623 132,375 

" 1878 and 1879 109,574 581,739 78,116 154,985 

t3,008 from Charleston and Savannah. 
*441 from Charleston. 

The following table gives the destination of naval stores exports for the naval store 
years ending March 31, 1882 and 1883 : 

DESTINATION OF EXPORTS. 



YEAES ENDED 31st MAECH. 


1881 


-'82. 


1882 


-'83. 




Spirits. 


Eosin. 


Spirits. 


Eosin. 


Channel, for Orders 


6,474 
21,278 
3,317 
5,M4 
532 
1,483 

825 
8,391 
3,165 

7',262 
'466 

"4 


1,293 
53,040 
13,614 
20,021 
27,299 

6,038 
12,331 
14,429 

4,700 
98,285 
31,370 

25,524 
28,320 

10',76i 
17,320 



2',656 

7',i61 

2,587 

2'.722 

800 

13 


7,625 
12,916 
2,050 
5,610 
1,730 
1,731 
75 

1,666 
8,600 
4,602 

7,7 i 2 

'756 

"56 

'"2 


3,697 
58,508 
17,372 


London 


Liverpool 


Bristol 


29,716 


Glasgow 


33,368 


Hull 


3,650 


New Castle 


11,200 


Granton and Leith 


12,990 


Belfast 


2,963 


Hamburg and Harbourg 


50,725 


Eotterdani . . 


19,767 


Amsterdam 




Antwerp 


.i7,232 


Stettin . 


29,407 


Bremen 




Cronstadt 


5,741 


Trieste 


29,868 


Barcelona . ... 




Cardiff 




Havre 




Genoa 




Marseilles 


3,000 


Cette 

Ghent 




Eiga 


22,950 


Eostock 


4,602 


Fiume 


7,076 


Konigsberg 




Sunderland 


2,184 


Lisbon . ... 




Gibralter 


8,373 


Other Ports 


145 






Total Foreign 


58,615 


380,278 


54,483 


384 ,.534 






Total Domestic 


29,752 


45.645 


32,507 


98,918 






Total Exports 


88,367 


425.923 


87.050 


483.452 



Other figures will be found at the conclusion of this department of our work. 

Owing to the great variety of business interests connected with the naval store trade 
of the city, and the fact that many houses are so closely identified with other branches 
of commercial pursuit, that separate figures cannot be obtained. We are unable to give 
in dollars and cents the exact amount of business annually transacted in the different 
branches of the trade, and must content ourselves with referring our readers to another 
department of this volume where sketches of the leading distillers, commission mer- 
chants, exporters and dealers engaged in the business will be found, which, taken 
together, furnish a fair estimate of the great importance this branch of commerce is to 
the city, and a satisfactory indication of it^ beneficial influence upon the general welfare 
of this people. 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 



71 




ST. JAMES' CHURCH. 



LUMBER AND SHINGLES. 



Of me timber trees which abound in this section, the first place is unquestionably- 
due to the long-leaf pine. It is the most valuable of all trees. Apart from its pro- 
ducts — turpentine, tar, rosin and the spirits distilled from turpentine — its uses m both 
civil and naval architecture defy enumeration. This timber and its products have long 
constituted one of the chief articles of export from this port. It alone has brought, 
and now brings, to Wilmington ships from all parts of the world. 

The cypress is the next in importance. It is found everywhere in the swamps of 
Eastern North Carolina. The axe has been diligently plied in the cypress forests of the 
State for three-quarters of a century or more, its timber being among the most valuable 
for the frame and wood- work of houses, for fences, water-pipes, &c., especially for 
shingles. Notwithstanding this, the margins of the swamps only have been cleared. 
Beyond this margin is an immense forest of these trees which has been scarcely touched. 
The height of the tree is from sixty to one hundred feet, with a circumference above its 
swollen base of from twenty to thirty feet— often much larger. 

The white cedar, or juniper, and the live oak are also found in abundance through- 
out this section. 

The lumber and shingle trade of Wilmington is then very naturally one of large 
proportions. 



72 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE 

There are seven saw and planing mills engaged in this industry, employing over 
three hundred hands. Their aggregate annual capacity is about forty-five million feet. 

The following figures give the exports, both foreign and domestic, of lumber and 
shingles for each month of the year ending January 1st, 1884: 

LUMBER. 

January, 4,487,081 feet; February, 2, 582, 224 feet; March, 2,837,972 feet; April, 
2,148,565 feet; May, 3,056,555 feet; June, 3,689,774 feet; July, 2,637,708 feet; Au- 
gust, 3,103,489 feet; September, 2,298,701 feet; October, 2,534,823 feet; November, 
2,413,538 feet; December, 3,673,694 feet. 

SHINGLES. 

January, 360,600; February, 495,475; March, 724,421; April, 129,775; May, 
479,375; June, 197,150; July, 561,000; August, 548,900; September, 814,525; Oc- 
tober, 827,825; November, 245,005; December, 1,005,525. 



MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURING AND MERCANTILE 

INTERESTS. 



FERTILIZERS. 

The movement of guano from Wilmington during the year 1883 indicates a busi- 
ness here in that line aggregating a million of dollars annually. It is impossible to 
give exact figures, as no statistical record has been kept, and the trade is so mixed up, 
if we may use the expression, with other branches of business. 

Sketches of the leading enterprises connected with the trade will be found else- 
where. 

RICE. 

There are three rice-mills in Wilmington, and a very large business in this line is 
annually transacted. " During the last few years," says Mr. Sprunt, -'the reclamation 
of old rice lands on the Cape Fear, many of which have been restored to a high and 
profitable state of cultivation, has been one of our principal industries — the present 
acreage in the vicinity of Wilmington on river lands being about 2,000 acres, which will 
be increased next season about 700 acres. The receipts have, however, fallen much 
below those of last year, as will be seen from the table appended : 

Receipts last year upland rice 66,313 bushels at this date. 

" this " " '' 37,382 '' '' '' 

Decrease 28,931 " " " 

Receipts tide-water rice last year 51,000 bushels at this date 

" this " 41,191 " " " 

Decrease 9,809 " " " 

The cause of this decrease is variously accounted for, but it is most likely owing 
to the risk consequent upon a threatened or possible change in the tariff laws, planters 
being indisposed to prepare new lands with prospective foreign competition, which 
would inevitably render the cultivation of American rice hopelessly unprofitable." 

The clean rice from this port is chiefly shipped to New York, Boston and Phila- 
delphia, where it receives an appreciative market, and is well known as the best rice 
milled in this country. 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND t"UTURE. 73 

PROVISIONS. 

We copy the following article in full from Mr. Sprunt's work : 
"Informer years the trade in provisions was done by and through wholesale 
grocers in this market, who not only supplied the retail demand of the city, but who 
furnished the planters and distillers in our country section for a radius of several 
hundred miles. Of late years the trade has fallen into the channel of provision brok- 
ers, who, at a small rate of commission, sell to the city dealers, and at times to the 
outside trade, their daily requirements of corn, meat, hay, flour, oats, and other staple 
articles, at current prices in Chicago, Louisville and other supply markets, plus the bare 
expense of freight and charges. 

The present annual consumption of provisions in this market is estimated, upon 
actual receipts, as follows: corn, 500,000 bushels; meat, 15,000 boxes; hay, 1,500 
tons; flour, 50,000 barrels; oats, 75,000 bushels. This enormous trade shows that the 
farmers and other consumers of provisions in and around Wilmington pay annually to 
the Chicago, New York and other remote markets, the sum of one miUion five hundred 
thousand dollars a year for provisions which ought to be raised by our farmers them- 
selves. Is it a wonder that North Carolina remains poor, or that our farmers who 
persist in planting cotton and working turpentine, to the utter neglect of provisions and 
provender, are always behind ? Perhaps the current low prices of cotton this year, 
compared with the unreasonably high cost of provisions, will teach our people an im- 
portant lesson, which they have hitherto been slow to learn." 

PEANUTS. 

The North Carolina peanut crop is grown upon the hammock lands, upon the im- 
mediate coast, between the South Carolina line and Beaufort, N. C. The average yield 
per acre is about thirty bushels. 

Wilmington being the most central point, almost the entire crop is marketed here 
— the markets being mostly Northwestern and Southern cities. 

The following figures gives the number of bushels exported for each month of the 
year ending January 1, 1884: January, 7,368; February, 6,701; March, 6,620; 
April, 5,301; May, 6,398; June, 5,406; July, 5,027; August. 5,043; September, 
3,910; Octobei, 2,093; November, 8,590; December, 9,360. 

GRAIN, FLOUR AND HOMINY MILLS. 

There are four flour, grain and meal mills in the city, and the only two pearl 
hominy mills in the State. They give employment to 44 persons, and their annual 
transactions aggregate $400,000. 

MISCELLANEOUS MANUFACTURING ESTABLISHMENTS. 

There are in Wilmington at the present time, in addition to the manufacturing 
establishments already mentioned, the following : two rosin oil distilleries, one kreo- 
soting works, one gypsum mill, one dry dock, two marine railways, three machine 
shops and foundries, one railroad car factory, four peanut cleaners, two spirits of 
turpentine and tar canning establishments, one marble yard, one tobacco and two cigar 
factories, ice works, and a fish and oyster packing establishment. 

THE GROCERY TRADE. 

The grocery trade of Wilmington ranks as one of the leading branches of com- 
merce in the city. From the following carefully prepared figures some idea of the vast 
influence exerted by the trade upon the commercial well-being of the city can be 
obtained. 

There are located in Wilmington twenty wholesale and retail establishments, and 
ninety retail houses. The^former employ 125 persons, carry $325,000 worth of goods 
in stock and transacted a business last year amounting to $2,353,000. The business of 
the retail concerns for the same period is estimated at $250,000. 

DRY GOODS. 

It is impossible to give exact figures as to the amount of business done annually in 
dry goods strictly, as most of the houses engaged in the trade are also dealers in no- 
tions, clothing, boots, shoes and hats and caps. We approximate it as nearly as possible. 

10 



74 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

There are twenty-one houses in the city, the aggregate of whose transactions will reach 
$1,250,000. They carry an average aggregate assortment of goods worth $250,000, 
and give employment to between 75 and 100 persons. 

CLOTHING AND GENTS' FURNISHING GOODS. 

Seven first-class establishments represent this line of trade in Wilmington, whose 
annual transactions aggregate nearly $500,000. They employ fifty-one persons and have 
$196,000 invested in the business. 

BOOTS AND SHOES. 

In addition to those houses handling this class of goods engaged also in other lines, 
there are three exclusively boot and shoe houses in the city carrying average stocks 
amounting in the aggregate to $135,000, and employing twenty persons. Their annual 
transactions amount to $285,000. 

HATS AND CAPS. 

There is but one exclusively hat and cap house in the city, although a number of 
other establishments are large dealers in this line in connection with other branches of 
trade. The one we have mentioned carries a stock of about $4,000 and does an 
annual business in the neighborhood of $15,000. 

CARRIAGES AND HARNESS. 

There is but one house in the city devoted to the harness trade exclusively, and two 
others dealing in both carriages and harness. Their annual transactions amount to 
$55,000, affording employment to twenty-five persons. 

FURNITURE AND CARPETS. 

Three houses in this branch of trade carry a line of goods averaging $35,000 in 
value, and employ sixteen assistants. Their yearly transactions amount to $100,000. 

HARDWARE. 

The hardware business of the city is one of its most important branches of trade. 
There are four large houses in this line employing a capital of $175,000, and twenty-six 
persons. Their yearly business amounts to the handsome sum of $470,000 dollars. 

LIQUORS AND TOBACCO. 

There are five wholesale houses devoted to this branch of business, whose yearly 
transactions amount to a sum exceeding $450,000. 

DRUGS. 

Nine drug stores employ thirty assistants and carry on a business in their line 
amounting to $150,000. 

STOVES AND TINWARE. 

This branch of trade is represented by two establishments whose business amounts 
annually to $65,000. They employ twelve hands and keep about $20,000 worth of 
goods in stock. 

PAINTS AND OILS. 

A business amounting annually to $105,000 is transacted in the above line, afford- 
ing employment to about fifteen persons. 

BOOKS, STATIONERY AND MUSIC. 

There are two excellent houses devoted to the above trade, doing an annual busi- 
ness of 75,000. 

There are, of course, other branches of business not before mentioned, and, in re- 
gard to which, we have been unable to obtain reliable figures, among them are : four 
livery and sale stables, three sewing machine agencies, five bakers and confectioneries, 
five cotton and naval store brokers, eight merchandise brokers, four ship brokers, one 
timber broker, one candy manufacturing establishment, thirty-three commission mer- 
chants, four coal and wood dealers, two china, glass and earthernware dealers, three 
photographers, one shirt factory, to soda water manufactories, three upholsterers, three 
undertakers, and, perhaps, other enterprises. In the following pages, however, we give 
descriptions of such of the leading business interests of all kinds in the city as we have 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 



75 



been able to obtain, and in every instance they may be relied on as complete and accu- 
rate in every detail. 

From the most careful estimate that could possibly be obtained, taking official fig- 
ures where they exist, and gathering information from the most reliable sources where 
they do not, we find the business transacted annually in the City of Wilmington to be 
$27,750,000. 

CONCLUSION. 

This statement of the commerce and trade of the City of Wilmington shows what 
has already been accomplished, and what position in the mercantile world the city occu- 
pies to-day. It is certainly creditable to the enterprise of the men who have placed 
her where she is ; but, if we mistake not, the opportunities and possibilities of the future, 
the development of the next ten years will far exceed any corresponding period in the 
city's past history. Though misfortunes have been suffered in days happily gone by, 
and the skies have temporarily been darkened, the light of a renewed prosperity shines 
again upon this community, fructifying and warming into life its trade, enter- 
prises and industries, and a future is before for manufactories in iron, wood, 
cotton fertilizers, tobacco, wool, and, in fact, every staple in the country, while, for 
the capitalist and mechanic, we know of no place in the South where skill and money 
can be more profitably employed. 

If Wilmington does not in time become one of the greatest business centers and 
most important manufacturing cities in the Union, it will not be because nature has not 
endowed her with every gift, showered upon her every blessing, and favored her with 
every circumstance necessary to her growth and prosperity. 




FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 



76 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 



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WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 



77 



TO THE PEOPLE OF WILMINGTON, 

THE BUSINESS MEN OF NORTH CAROLINA AND THE SOUTH. 

We present to our readers, and the business community herewith, a brief historical 
review of the prominent business houses and manufacturing estabhshments of the City 
of Wilmington. It will not only be interesting as an exhibit of the growth of the city 
in the past years, but also as an indication of the present prosperity. 

The notices, as a group, embraces numbers of substantial and enterprising firms in 
every department of trade and commerce, including many specialties, and will be an 
assurance to those contemplating a visit to the city for the purpose of purchasing sup^ 
plies, that their every want can be here fully satisfied on as reasonable terms as at any 
point in the United States. Some firms are conspicuous by their absence. Those of 
any prominence have not been willingly excluded. They are mostly of that class, how- 
ever, who have kept the City of Wilmington half a century behind the times, and are 
wedded to the notions and prejudices of their grandfathers. Fortunately they are few 
in numbers, and generally lacking in the intelligence and ability which it is necessary 
for the successful business man to possess in this progressive age. They will soon pass 
away and be forgotten. 




View of the City of Wilmington. 

J. H. CHADBOURN & CO., Proprietors of the Clarendon Steam Saw and Planing Mills. 

Office No. UN. Water Street, (up stairs.) 
Among the industrial and commercial interests of the City of Wilmington there are 
none occupying a more prominent position or exercising a more healthful influence on 
the general thrift and prosperity of the community than those connected with the lum- 
ber trade. The situation of the city with reference to the timber growing districts of 
North Carolina has always conduced to give it special importance in this branch of trade, 
and it is only reasonable to suppose that enterprises of this kind should be among the. 
most important industrial and commercial factors in the sum total of the city's trade and 
resources. Of the several firms in the city, the aggregate of whose transactions is 
mammoth in its proportions, the establishment of Messrs. J. H. Chadbourn & Co. oc- 



78 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

cupies such a prominent and influential position as to demand special consideration in 
a work of this kind. The enterprise was inaugurated by the present firm about thirty 
years ago and has enjoyed an honorable career of prosperity and success. They have 
both a saw mill and a planing mill, and manufacture yellow pine timber into lumber. 
Their saw mill building is a two-story structure, 26x100 feet in size — the planing mill is 
one story in height and 31x100 feet in dimensions. These mills are in every respect, 
perhaps, the most complete and perfectly arranged of any of the kind in North Caro- 
lina. The machinery in both is of the latest and most improved pattern and design. 
Two fine and powerful engines supply the requisite motive power — that in the saw mill 
being of a 75 horse power and the one in the planing mill a 35-horse power engine. 
They employ from thirty to fifty hands, to whom from three to four hundred dollars are 
paid in weekly wages. They saw to order entirely, and sell from five to six million 
feet per annum. Their trade is located principally in Maine, Massachusetts, Philadel- 
phia, coast-wise, and in the West Indies. 

The firm is composed of Messrs. J. H. and George Chadbourn, both natives of 
Maine, but residents of this city for thirty five and thirty-four years, respectively. The 
former is one of the members of the Board of Commissioners of Navigation and Pilot- 
age for the Cape Fear River and Bar, and is now Chairman of the School Committee 
for District No. 2. Mr. George Chadbourn has been a member of the City Board of 
Aldermen and is a Director of the First National Bank. It is by such men that the 
reputation and trade of cities is established and maintained, and these gentlemen cer- 
tainly deserve the praise and congratulations of the citizens of this community foi 
building up so important an enterprise in their midst. 

These gentlemen, having more capital than they could employ in their mill business 
here, sought opportunities for profitable investment elsewhere, and in March, 1882, 
commenced building a larger mill on the line of the Wilmington, Columbia and 
Augusta Railroad, fifty-three miles from Wilmington, at the same time constructing 
a railroad to reach large bodies of standing timber they had previously bought. This 
mill is built in the most thorough manner, with all the modern improvements, and is 
capable of sawing from 25,000 to 40,000 feet of lumber daily. Every arrangement 
has been made to manufacture the lumber and load the cars with the greatest economy, 
and is said by many who have visited it to be the best arranged mill in the State. 

At first they had determined only on building such a railroad as would accomodate 
their logging business, but, finding the country through which it passed so rich and fer- 
tile and capable of being made as fine a cotton and corn producing section as any in 
North or South Carolina, they changed their plans and built the railroad in as thorough 
a manner as possible, using best heart cross ties and best material for bridges and trestles 
and five feet guage to connect with the W. , C. & A. R. R. They have this rail- 
road now completed between nine and ten miles, and have fully equipped it with 
rolling stock for freight traffic, and the amount of freight they have hauled in the short 
time they have had it in operation has exceeded their most sanguine expectations, and 
shows their sagacity in selecting this point of operation. 

The objective point of this railroad is Conwayboro, the leading outlet for the pro- 
duce of Southeastern South Carolina, thirty-five miles distant. To reach this the rail- 
road passes through untouched forests of the best yellow pine timber to be found in the 
Southern country. The reason this timber has been left, is that this section through 
which the road passes has had no outlet whatever, and although these magnificent for- 
ests are here and a soil equal to any, yet not a stick of timber could be hauled to 
market, nor a bale of cotton raised where it had to be hauled thirty, five miles to market. 
The people of Horry county, South Carolina, are enthusiastic over such a prospect as 
being connected by railroad with the outside world, and predict an increase of value to 
their hitherto undeveloped lands of one hundred per cent. The quantity of yellow 
pine timber this road will reach is variously estimated at from one to one hundred and 
fifty million feet, and in quality equal to any in Georgia or Florida. The land along 
this railroad can now be bought cheap, and people from other sections are beginning to 
see their ultimate value and are purchasing, and at no distant day we predict that this 
will be the garden spot of the Carolinas. The salubrity of this section is unsurpassed 
in the country — chills and fever being unknown, and for people having tendency to 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 79 



pulmonary diseases unequaled — the breathing of the pure air from the pine forests 
proving most beneficial and salutary, and, unless the disease has taken too strong hold, 
effectmg a cure. At the terminus of the railroad they connect with the W., C. & A. 
R. R., and being of same gauge, freight does not break bulk, and in the month of 
January, only fifteen months after breaking ground, they hauled 1,200,000 pounds 
of freight. They have built a town here, and it was incorporated at the last session of 
the Legislature. There are now twenty-six houses in the village, many others are 
contemplated, and there is a brisk demand for building lots in the place. They have 
most appropriately named the town Chadbourn, and the main railroad has been quick 
to see its advantages and erected the finest wood-house and water-tank on the whole 
road, and stop all trains there. They have ample post-office and telegraph facihties. 
They have associated with them in this enterprise a younger brother, W. H. Chad- 
bourn, and a son, J. H. Chadbourn, Jr., and have built this costly mill and railroad en- 
tirely within their own means so far. but if they would extend the road and dispose of 
some of the stock, it would be a most profitable investment and would be readily taken. 
The Legislature, in granting them a charter for the railroad, gave them many privileges, 
and the people along the line of the road are so anxious for the building of the road, 
that they freely offer the right of way and donate a large per centage of their lands to 
the company for the sake of having the railroad pass in their vicinity. In addition to 
the yellow pine, large bodies of the finest cypress, recently become very valuable, are 
touched. 

CRONL Y & MORRIS, Auctioneers, Real Estate and Stock Brokers, 

Corner Water and Princess Streets. 

Of the various enterprises that give character and standing to the metropolitan pre- 
tensions of the City of Wilmington, we know of none which is more worthy of favorable 
consideration at the hands of the public than that of Messrs. Cronly & Morris. It is 
an establishment whose foundation dates back to 1847, in which year it was founded 
by Mr. Cronly. The present firm was formed in 1866. They carry on a general auc- 
tion, real estate and stock brokerage business, which amounts annually to from $30,000 
to $40,000. Their business premises are located at the corner of Water and Princess 
streets, in a building 60x75 feet in dimensions, where three assistants are employed. 
The individual members of the firm are Messrs. Mich. Cronly and Wilkes Morris, both 
natives of this city. They are gentlemen of extended means and influence in the com- 
munity, closely identified with the advancement and development of the resources of 
this section, and have done much to promote the material welfare of and general well- 
being of the city. 

KERCHUER & CALDER BROS., Wholesale Grocers and Commission Merchants, 

Cotton Factors and Dealers in Fertilizers, JVos. 221 and 223 North Water Street. 

Wilmington being naturally the point for the receipt and distribution of so large 
and important a section of the country, it is no wonder that she stands justly celebrated 
for the magnitude and extent of her trade, and the enterprise of her merchants and bus- 
iness men. In every branch of trade the city can boast of representative business 
houses which will compare favorably with other cities having a much larger population. 
With reference to commercial affairs, however, it is the wholesale grocery, cotton and 
naval stores commission trade which must always occupy the most prominent position 
here as promoting most materially the mercantile importance of this community, and in 
our endeavor to make on these pages some lasting and historical record of those firms 
and commercial establishments which have mainly contributed to the importance and 
standing the City of Wilmington now holds in the mercantile world, we find none 
more worthy of special consideration than that which heads this article. The business 
was established by F. W. Kerchuer in 1865, just after the close of the war, and has 
steadily grown to its present proportions. As wholesale grocers and dealers they carry 
constantly on hand a complete and carefully selected stock sufficient to meet all the de- 
mands and requirements of their extensive trade. It will average from $25,000 to 
$50,000 in value, according to season. As commission merchants and cotton factors, 



80 WILMINGTON — PAST. PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

and dealers in fertilizers, their transactions also aggregate a very large sum. Their 
consignments are received from all directions. Their business premises are exten- 
sive and fully commensurate with the requirements of their trade. The building 
occupied as the store is a substantial three-story structure, 75x40 feet in dimensions, 
adjoining which are two warehouses, one 25x50 and the other 30x75 feet in size. Their 
fire-proof brick cotton shed is supplied with all modern improvements and conveniences, 
and has a floor surface of 7,000 square feet. Their naval store yard is centrally located, 
fronting on the river 200 feet, and having a depth of 165 feet, with sheds covering 
20,000 square feet of floor space. It will thus be seen that they are possessed of 
unusual facilities and arrangements for the convenient and effective transaction of all 
the details of the line of business in which they are engaged. In the different depart- 
ments they employ fourteen assistants, to whom $185 is paid weekly. Their business 
extends throughout the States of North and South Carolina, along the Atlantic coast 
and Cape Fear River, as well as along the lines of the different railroads entering this 
city, their annual transactions amounting to from $750,000 to $1,000,000. The 
individual members of the firm are Messrs. Francis W. Kerchuer, Robert E. Calder 
and Wm. Calder, the first formerly a citizen of Baltimore, and a resident of this city 
since 1865 ; the two latter natives of Wilmington. Mr. Wm. Calder, of this firm, is a 
member of the City Board of Audit and Finance. 

Combining, as do the members of this leading firm, all the departments of the 
business of their house with careful, prudent and intelligent management, and fair and 
liberal dealing, they have the foundation laid for a success in the future as great and 
enduring as has been achieved in the past, and are worthy representatives of the im- 
portant business interest to which their energies are devoted. 

ROBERT PORT HER BREWING COMPANY, of Alexandria, Va., J. H. Tienken. Manager. 

Wilmington Depot, No. 21 North Second Street. 

The great popularity of the amber-hued beverage of the " Faderland " among all 
classes and nationalities is the best evidence of its generoue appreciation, and its ability to 
fill the wants of the public for a health-giving and invigorating drink. In Germany, where 
for centuries the knowledge and practice of brewing lager beer has descended from gener- 
ation to generation, it is held in the highest estimation by the people, and is regarded 
as an indispensible adjunct to the every day wants of all classes of society. Notwith- 
standing the fact that the first knowledge of the brewing of beer had its inception in the 
principalities of the old world, it has been left to America the honor of having perfected 
and improved its standard to the present high grade of excellence. There are many 
mammoth brewing establishments throughout different parts of the country, but in the 
South the Robert Portner Brewing Company, of Alexandria, Va., stands far in the lead, 
as being both the most extensive in the magnitude of its operations, and for the superior 
excellence of their manufacture. The Wilmington depot was established in 1878, and 
is under the efficient and inteUigent management and direction of Mr. J. H. Tienken. 
The building occupied is a two story brick structure, 25x120 feet in dimensions. Both 
keg and bottled beer is handled. The Wilmington establishment bottles from 300 to 
400 barrels per month, and transacts a business amounting annually to not less than 
from $40,000 to $50,000; the territory over which Mr. Tienken has control being about 
forty miles square. Five assistants are employed by him in the transaction of the busi- " 
ness of the company. He is a native ot Wilmington, where he is well and favorably 
known and universally popular with the trade, and brings to the discharge of his duties 
an executive ability and intelligence of a high order. 

The Robert Portner Brewing Company has depots and bottling establishments in 
the following cities in addition to Wilmington : Richmond, Va. , Norfolk, Va. , Lynch- 
burg, Va., Danville, Va., Hampton, Va., Augusta, Ga., Washington, D. C, Charlotte, 
N. C., Goldsboro, N. C, Raleigh, N. C, Columbia, S. C, Greenville, S. C, Flor- 
ence. S. C. 



WILMINGTON— t»AST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 81 

CAROLINA RICE MILLS, Nos. 7 and 9 Chestnut Street 

In reviewing the commercial and manufacturing interests and advantages of the 
City of Wilmington, we are confronted by many enterprises especially worthy of ex- 
tended notice and consideration. It is a fact, and one worthy of appreciation by our 
readers, that in this, the thriving and progressive metropolis of the State, are located 
many establishments whose extensive proportions and large operations would reflect 
credit upon the largest cities in the country. One of these representative enterprises in 
its special line is the Carolina Rice Mills, ot which Messrs. Norwood Giles and Pem- 
broke Jones, of this city, are the enterprising proprietors. In 1879 these gentlemen 
were induced by the increasing rice crop along the Cape Fear River, as well as in the 
up country, to undertake this important enterprise, and the remarkable success that has 
attended their efforts is a most gratifying evidence of their wisdom and forethought. 
They have now as completely equipped and model an establishment of the kind as can 
be found in the Southern States, while their annual transactions are as large as those of 
any mill of the kind in the country. The mill building is a substantially built, four- 
story structure, 60x120 feet in dimensions. The machinery and appliances in use are 
all of the very latest and most improved pattern, and driven by a 60-horse power en- 
gine. The average amount of stock carried is $100,000, and thirteen persons are em- 
ployed in the different departments. The natural product is roughed into clean rice, 
from 75 to 100 barrels being run out daily. It first passes through a set of stone, where 
it is ground, thence to the pestles, which are eighteen in number, where it is pounded 
and beaten. Thence it passes through the spouting to the next floor, where it is cleaned 
or separated from the flour. It is then passed through the brushes for polishing, and 
the necessary fans and screens. The flour obtained as above is used for feeding pur- 
poses. There is also another grade of flour called the polish, which is also used for 
feed. The elevators in the building materially assist in faciHtating all the operations of 
the mills. The product of these mills has become generally recognized all over the 
country as bemg of a very superior quality, and has come into extensive demand in 
such markets as New York, Cincinnati, London, England ; Charleston, Norfolk, Rich- 
mond, Lynchburg, Pittsburg and Kansas City. 

The proprietors of this important enterprise, as we had occasion to say before, are 
Messrs. Norwood Giles and Pembroke Jones, both natives of this city. They are gen- 
tlemen of unusual business ability and intelligence; just in the prime of vigorous 
manhood, and have proven themselves among the most enterprising and substantial of 
the citizens of this community. Their establishment is a credit to the city, an honor to 
themselves, and an important factor in the advancement and promotion of the trade and 
commerce of Wilmington. They also have another mill at Washington, this State, 
which is a branch of this mill. 

HOLMES & MATTERS, Wholesale and Retail Grocers, Nos. 6 and 8 Front Street. 

A careful review of the various commercial enterprises of this city renders appar- 
ent her reputation for business energy and enterprise. With her numerous prominent 
houses in the general grocery trade, Wilmington may justly claim to be the distributing 
point for a large and prosperous region of country. Among the houses that are justly 
qualified for rank and credit as being not only extensive, but among the foremost in 
this branch of trade, there does not exist a firm more deserving of such classification 
than that of Messrs. Holmes & Watters. This house was started in 1879 by the pres- 
ent firm, and has been successful from the beginning. Their business premises are 
commodious and conveniently arranged for the transaction of business, the building be- 
ing 50x120 feet in dimensions, with an L 25x50 feet. They carry a large and varied 
stock of both staple and fancy groceries, the value of which is from $18,000 to $20,000. 
Nine competent and experienced assistants are employed in the different departments of 
the business. The firm has ample capital and can offer their customers every advantage 
in the matters of cheap prices, first class goods and reasonable terms. Their trade is 
large and steadily increasing, extending over North and South Carolina, and amounting 
to $150,000. 

11 



S2 Wilmington — past, present and future. 

"^The individual members of the firm are Messrs. G. Holmes and J. H. Walters. 
MrT Homes is a North Carolinian by birth, and has resided in this city for sixteen 
years. Mr, Wallers was for some time connected in an official position with the City 
Fire Department. He was born in this State, and has been a resident of Wilmington 
since 1868. They are both enterprising business men, and enjoy the confidence and 
esteem of all with whom they have business relations, As a firm, they are justly enti- 
tled to a prominent position among the representative business houses of the City of 
Wilmington. 

JAMES A. FORE, Proprietor Harrison Planing Mills. 

This city, being so advantageously situated with reference to the lumber producing 
districts of North Carolina, has become a point of prominence in the trade, and it is 
only natural that among the industrial and commercial enterprises of the city, those 
connected with this branch of industry should be among the most important factors in 
the general welfare of the city. Among the several individuals and firms engaged in 
this line of operations, Mr. James A. Fore already stands in the front rank. He com- 
menced business on January 1st, 1884, and is possessed of every advantage and facil 
ity tor transacting a large and lucrative business. He deals in all kinds of lumber, 
lath, shingles, sash, doors, blinds and mouldings; manufactures fruit and vegetable 
boxes ; does fancy scroll work and turning to order, and makes a specialty of ceiling and 
flooring. The plant of the establishment is located at the foot of Walnut street. The 
planing mill is 40x40 feet in dimensions, and the factory buildmg the same size and 
height. The machinery and appliances in use are of the very latest and most improved 
pattern for this branch of manufacture, the motive power for which is steam, supplied 
by an engine of 60-horse power. In its particular line of manufacture this establish- 
ment is prepared to meet all the demands of the trade in this city and the surrounding 
country. A manufactured stock averaging $3, 000 is carried on hand, and twelve skilled 
and experienced workmen are employed in the different departments. 

Mr. Fore is a native of Richmond, Virginia, and has resided in Wilmington four 
years. He is an energetic, enterprising business man, entitled to great credit and favor- 
able consideration for establishing an enterprise of so much importance to the manufac- 
turing and industrial interests of this community. 

J. IV. TAYLOR, Saw Mill, Foot of Walnut Street. 

To manufacturers and dealers in lumber there are few cities in the South offering 
such advantages as the City of Wilmington, an abundant proof of which fact is to be 
found in the extent and importance of her lumber trade. Situated within easy access 
of the great timber producing districts of the State, and with unsurpassed facilities for 
shipment to all parts of the world by means of vessels entering this port, it is but natu- 
ral that there should be located here enterprises notable for the large amount of capital 
invested in them, and remarkable for the energetic and industrious character of their 
proprietors. Such an establishment is that of Mr. J. W. Taylor, which was founded 
by that gentleman in 1874. His mill is located at the foot of Walnut street, the build- 
ing being a structure 30x120 feet in dimensions. None but the latest and most improved 
machinery is used in the mill, which is driven by an engine of 80-liorse power. He 
employs about twenty hands and saws four million feet per annum. The logs are rafted 
down Cape Fear River to the mill, where they are sawed and the lumber prepared for 
shipment. The entire product is shipped to New York and other prominent points, the 
annual sales amounting to about $40,000. An average stock of $5,000 is carried in 
the yards to meet the immediate demands of the trade. 

Mr. Taylor is a North Carolinian by birth, and has resided in this city for nearly 
twenty years. He possesses a thorough knowledge of his business, and is able to suc- 
cessfully meet and overcome all competition from whatever source. As a citizen, no 
one could occupy a more prominent position, or has aided more to elevate and extend 
the trade and reputation of the city. 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 83 

PARKER & TAYLOR, Wholesale and Retail Sfoves, Tinware and House-Furnishing 

Goods, No. 23 South Front Street. 

The above establishment is a leading one in the above branch of trade, and has 
been brought to a high standard in all its departments. It was founded by the present 
firm in 1870, and the business has grown rapidly and is steadily increasing. They 
occupy a large store at No. 23 South Front street, the building being a two-story struc- 
ture, 22x98 feet in dimensions, with a show room for parlor and heating stoves attached 
in the second story, and above the offices of Howe, Baily & Co., 50x35, and offer to 
customers a complete assortment of goods in their line at moderate prices. They have 
a large and carefully selected stock of stoves, both cooking and heating, together with 
every variety of house-furnishing goods and tin, copper, sheet-iron, brass and Japanned 
wares; the whole being of an average value of from $10,000 to $12,000. Four assis- 
tants are employed, and all orders are promptly and satisfactorily executed. Their 
trade extends into all parts of the surrounding country, their annual sales comparing 
favorably with those of any similar establishment in this section. 

The individual members of the firm are Messrs. W. M. Parker and James H. 
Taylor. Mr. Parker is a native of Connecticut, but has resided in this city since 1862. 
He is one of the members of the School Committee for District No. 1. Mr. Taylor is 
a North Carolinian by birth, and has been a citizen of Wilmington since 1866. These 
gentlemen are capable and energetic business men, honorable and straightforward in all 
their transactions, and their establishment is deserving of generous consideration. 

THE ACME MANUFACTURING COMPANY, Manufacturers of Cotton Seed Oil Fertilizers, 

And Pine Hair for Upholstering Purposes, Office Cor. Water and Princess Streets. 

The experience of the last iff^ years has clearly demonstrated the fact that 
Southern cities cannot hope to obtain either commercial prominence or material and 
lasting prosperity and wealth through the channel of mercantile trade alone. It is 
upon the development of their manufacturing and industrial interests that they must 
mainly rely for substantial growth and financial stability. Within the last decade the 
intelligent attention of capitalists and business men in all parts of the South has been 
turned to this subject. The result has been that mines are being opened, and mills and 
factories of all kinds are springing into existence all over the Southern States, and it 
is thus that the unlimited and boundless resources of this great section of the country 
will eventually be developed. In this community abundant evidences of progress and 
advancement are to be found on every hand, a sure guarantee of stable and permanent 
prosperity in the future. A striking example of this favorable condition of affairs is 
afforded by the Acme Manufacturing Company, an enterprise mammoth in its propor- 
tions and unlimited as to its future possibilities. It is the result of a consolidation of 
three important enterprises, which were incorporated under the existing management in 
1883, by a stock company with an authorized capital of ($1,000,000) one million 
dollars, and a paid-up capital of ($152,000) one hundred and fifty-two thousand dollars. 
Their line of operations embraces the manufacture of cotton seed oil by a new and 
improved process, the naphtha process, whereby they obtain a much larger per centage 
of oil than is yielded by the old system, and fertilizers of various grades and fibre from the 
long-leaf pine, for upholstering purposes. 

The plant of their works is situated at Cronley, on the Carolina Central Railroad, 
about seventeen miles west of the city. The situation of their factories is a most fav- 
orable one, as they are located immediately on the line of the Carolina Central Railroad 
and on the banks of Livingston Creek, a navigable stream emptying into Cape Fear 
River, and are only three-quarters of a mile from the Wilmington, Columbia and 
Augusta Railroad, with which road the factories will soon be connected by track. The 
factory buildings are three in number, and occupy about ten acres. There have been 
also erected on the land of the company twenty-five tenement houses for the accommo- 
dation of their employes, each house being detached by itself, surrounded with a neat 
fence, and having a plat of ground about 70x140 feet. The eployes at present 
number one hundred, and receive about 8700 in weekly wages, while a considerable 
amount in addition is paid out every week to the country people, who bring in pine 



84 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

Straw, wood, etc. The various and diversified machinery and appliances in use are of 
the most modern and improved patterns and designs, the power used being steam. In all 
respects and details these factories are as completely and thoroughly equipped as any in 
the United States. Their fibre factory has already turned out about 100 tons of man- 
ufactured product, and as the demand for the "pine hair" for upholstering purposes has 
been steady and far in excess of their output, the company has largely increased 
the capacity of their fibre factory, which will soon be able to turn out eighteen tons per 
week. At present they only manufacture the fine fibre for upholstering purposes, mat- 
tresses, bedding, etc., and as the fibre possesses the property of driving off and 
destroying insects, etc., they have had and will have a large demand for their output 
for these purposes. We have seen several letters from distinguished persons who have 
used this fibre for mattresses, etc., and who have, unsolicited by the Company, written 
to express their satisfaction with and confidence in its virtues and properties. During 
the process of converting the pine-leaf into the fibre, an oil is obtained which appears 
to possess wonderful curative properties. The operatives at the factories seem to use 
this oil for wounds or colds in preference to any other remedy, and in several instances 
it has been used for rheumatism, neuralgia, and croup, with surprismg results. The 
company expect to pay more attention to the extraction of this oil, and to place it 
upon the market in quantities. Mr. A. Scott, who for some time was employed in the 
mills at Dundee, Scotland, is in charge of the fibre mill, and as he has great practical 
experience in the manufacture of flax, jute, etc., the Company intend to introduce 
into this factory the machinery necessary for the manufacture from the pine fibre of 
matting similar to jute matting, and the coarser grades of carpets. The establishment 
of this factory will mark an area in the prosperity of the State, as by its means a vast 
and hitherto useless and neglected mine of wealth will be opened. 

The fertilizer factory of the company has a capacity of over 10,000 tons per 
annum. Their fertilizer is made from phosphate rock, which is found in large deposit 
upon the property of the company. In this particular the State at large certainly owes 
a debt of gratitude to the gentlemen composing this company, as notwithstanding the 
fact that there has been for a long time a department especially established by the State 
for the advancement of agriculture and kindred interests, and the further fact that the 
geological formation of Eastern North Carolina is very similar to that of the localities 
of South Carolina where the celebrated phosphate rock is obtained, this company 
was the first to make any persistent and practical search for such deposits, and that, too, 
in the face of repeated obstacles, freely expressed doubts and discouragements. But 
since this company has been successful in its search, and has proved beyond a 
doubt, that phosphate rock of considerably commercial and agricultural value does exist 
in this State, it has excited a great public mterest in this question, and in consequence 
of which numerous explorations have been made, resulting in the finding of several 
similar deposits scattered throughout the State. 

From the fact that the company obtains its phosphate rock from its own lands, and 
in consequence of the favorable location of its factories, it is enabled to manufacture a 
first-class fertilizer at so low a cost as to place it within reach of all. It is only reason- 
able to suppose that the establishment of this and similar factories will eventually retain 
the whole of the vast trade in fertilizers, which is carried on. in this State, within its own 
borders. Their oil mill for the extraction of cotton seed and other vegetable oils, is the 
first mill of this kind which has been established in this country. By this process they 
obtain a larger per centage of oil at a smaller cost than by the old system. This pro- 
cess is similar in its principle to that which is so strongly advocated by the distinguished 
French chemist, George Ville ; and its introduction into this country was also advocated 
by the celebrated cotton statician, Mr. Edward Atkinson, of Boston, Massachusetts. 
This factory has a capacity of about twenty (20) tons, and the company has now on 
hand a very large quantity of cotton seed, which will enable the mill to be operated 
until late in the season. 

A visit to Cronly, where the factories are located, will display to the visitor a busy 
and animated scene. The neat cottages of the operatives all have lots attached to 
them, enabling the employes to have small kitchen gardens of their own, encouraging 
them in habits of thrift and industry. The company have firm faith in the virtues of 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 85 

paint and whitewash, and it is one of their rules that the cottages and surroundings of 
their factories shall present a neat and trim appearance. Another of their rules is not 
to employ any one whose character is not good, and to most decidedly discourage the 
habit of drinking, by promptly discharging any of their employes who are guilty of it. 
The company owns about 2,500 acres of rich land surrounding their factories, and have 
recently perfected arrangements for the leasing of farms for a long term of years for a 
nominal rent, to young and energetic men. They also expect to erect sulphuric acid 
and refining works this summer, and so be enabled to prepare at their own factories 
everything needed to put articles of the first grade directly upon the home and other 
markets. The trade of the company already extends all over the United States. 

The investment of such large sums of money in manufactories near Wilmington 
cannot fail to add largely to the prosperity and development of this city and the sur- 
rounding country, and by dividing taxation and giving employment to so many of our 
people, prove an inestimable and lasting public benefit. These enterprises belong to a 
class, that when once profitably fixed, must continue to increase and expand. 

The establishment of these factories is one of the most noteworthy events in the 
history of Wilmington and this section of the State, and the energy and business capa- 
bilities displayed by their founders prove them worthy of the success they have already 
attained, and which is certain to be largely increased. 

The officers of the organization are : Wm. Latimer, President; H. G. Latimer, 
Treasurer, and Henry Savage, Manager, with Cronly & Morris, General Agents, all citi- 
zens of Wilmington. They all take an active part in the business, employ large capital, 
and their establishment deservedly takes high rank among the leading industrial institu- 
tions of the South. 

H. D. GILBERT, Bakery, Bread, Cakes, &c., No. 27 Front Street. 

One of the most enterprising and thorough-going business men in this section of 
the city is Mr. H. D. Gilbert. His is the leading establishment of the kind in the city, 
and deservedly enjoys the patronage of the best class of citizens. He commenced 
business in 1877, since which time he has received the most encouraging support. His 
business premises are centrally located, and consist of a store 15x40 feet in dimensions, 
and a bakery 15x40 feet. He carries an ample stock, embracing every article, pure 
and fresh, in his line for family consumption, and transacts an annual business 
of $12,000, employing three competent and practical hands. He produces and 
furnishes to his large custom, from select flour, the choicest bread, cakes, rolls, &c., 
besides possessing one of the most attractive stores in the city. 

Mr. Gilbert is a native of the neighboring State of South Carolina, but has resided 
in Wilmington for forty-five years. His business is steadily growing, and his enterpris- 
ing policy will always secure for him a high position among the business men of 
Wilmington. 



JAMES C. MUNDS, Druggist, No. 104 North Front Street. 

As an important factor in the growth and general progress of the city, the drug 
trade has played no insignificant part. Among the leading establishments in this branch 
of business in Wilmington, that of Mr. Munds takes prominent position. It was founded 
in 1873, and through the experience and enterprise of its proprietor, is in the enjoyment 
of a flourishing and prosperous trade. The business premises occupied consist of a 
large three-story building, 20x65 feet in dimensions, admirably situated, where a stock 
of an average value of $12,000 is carried. It is large and complete, embracing drugs, 
chemicals, proprietary medicines, surgical instruments and appliances, druggists' sun- 
dries, and a handsome and elegant assortment ot fancy goods and toilet articles, and 
all that pertains to a firsVclass establishment of the kind. Three competent and experi- 
enced assistants are employed and an annual business of $15,000 is transacted. 

Mr. Munds was born in Wilmington, and is a thoroughly educated and practical 
druggist. Prompt, reliable and courteous to all, he is in every way deserving of the 
liberal patronage he receives, and will, in every respect, always be found fully up to the 
times. 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE 




P. H. HAYDEN, Manufacturer of Carriages and Harness, 

Ms. 13, 13 1-2 and 15 Nor/h Third Street. 

In reviewing the numerous, varied and important industrial enterprises which go 
to make up the sum total of the city's wealth and prosperity, there are many which are 
deserving of more space than we are at liberty to extend them. Such an one is the 

carriage and harness manufacturing establishment of Mr. 
P. H. Hayden. We speak advisedly when we say that 
there are but few cities in the South where a better ar- 
ranged or more complete enterprise of this kind can be 
found. It was founded by the present proprietor sixteen 
years ago, and has steadily increased to its present large 
proportions. The premises occupied are located as above, 
and consist of a substantial and conveniently arranged 
building, 55x56 feet in size, with an "L" 40x26 feet, the 
structure having two stones and a basement. The establishment is complete in every 
detail and arrangement, and equipped with the most modern improvement known to 
this branch of industrial pursuit. In the manufacture of carriages Mr. Hayden is 
prepared to turn out anything from a sulky to the heavy but graceful family carriage, 
his work being noted for the excellence of material used, superior workmanship and 
beauty of design and finish. He enjoys the largest trade in harness of every descrip- 
tion in the State. He employs a large number of hands, all skillful and experienced 
workmen, and gives his personal attention to all matters connected with his establish- 
ment. His trade extends into all the surrounding country, and is steadily and satisfac- 
torily increasing. He is a native of Maryland, from which State he came to this 
city sixteen years ago. He is a practical and experienced business man, and there 
exists in this city no enterprise of worthier mention. 

P. L BRIDGERS & CO., Wholesale and Retail Grocers. 

No. 110 North Front Street. 

There is no more important factor in the commercial and industrial growth and 
prosperity of a city than the grocery trade, and no more unerring index by means of 
which to judge of its enterprise. Prosperous and well-established grocery houses indi- 
cate qualifications among her citizens, which are the surest evidence of progress and 
development in commercial affairs. Such an establishment is that of Messrs. P. L. 
Bridgers & Co., which was founded by Mr. Bridgers in 1878. His premises are located 
at No. 110, North Front street, in a building 26x123 feet in dimensions. The house 
also has a large warehouse for purposes of storage. A large and well assorted stock of 
staple and fancy groceries is carried on hand, averaging $12,000 in value. Ten 
assistants are employed in the different departments, and an annual business is trans- 
acted in North and South Carolina amounting to a sum exceeding $100,000. 

Mr. Bridgers is a North Carolinian by birth, has resided in Wilmington for thirteen 
years, and is numbered among the most enterprising and substantial of the citizens of 
this community. His establishment ranks among the first of his contemporaries, and 
commands the respect of the trade and the highest consideration of the public at large. 

In addition to his stock of groceries he has a fine stock of wines and whiskys, also 
a full line of domestic and imported cigars. 

J. C. STEVENSON, Wholesale and Retail Dealer in Fancy and Staple Groceries. 

No. 31 Market Street. 

The name of Mr. Stevenson has long been a familiar one to the homes and tables 
of the best citizens of Wilmington, and his establishment is certainly entided to consid- 
erable mention among the leading grocery houses of this city. The business was 
established by Mr. Stevenson in 1867, and has enjoyed a career of marked success and 
prosperity. He occupies as a store a four story brick building, 20x120 feet in dimen- 
sions, at No. 31, Market street, which is supplied with an ample stock of first-class 
fresh and pure groceries, both staple and fancy, consisting in part of choice family flour, 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 87 

fine coffees, teas, sugars, syrups, canned goods, and the thousand and one other articles for 
household use and domestic consumption. The facilities of the house are unsurpassed 
by any other establishment in the city for first quality of goods and low prices. Fam- 
ilies can have their purchases deUvered, without extra charge at their homes, no matter 
in what part of the city. The stock is most carefully selected and is constantly being 
replenished, and the trade of the house in the city and surrounding country is probably 
the largest in this line. 

Mr. Stevenson is a native of Wilmington, and is thoroughly identified with the 
commercial growth and prosperity of the city. The well known, honorable and liberal 
basis upon which all his transactions have been conducted has won for his house a rep- 
utation to which nothing that we could say would add. 

Mr. Stevenson is also the proprietor of E. J. Moore & Co.'s confectionerv and 
candy manufacturing establishment; also of the retail grocery house of J. C. Stevenson 
& Co., in another part of the city. He is also the largest country produce receiver in 
the city, and has received 100,000 poultry alone in one year, besides eggs, butter, peas 
and other produce. 

AARON & RH EINSTEIN, Wholesale Dry Goods, Notions, Hats and Shoes, 

Ms. 29 and 31 JVor/A Front Street. 

The business enterprise, prosperity and solidity of a city are in a large measure 
indicated by the extent and character of her commercial houses. The great dry goods 
houses of the country, with their co-relative branches of trade, have exercised a power- 
ful influence upon the welfare of the communities in which they are situated, and the 
old, wealthy and successful establishments have become familiar, by trade and reputa- 
tion, in all sections of the land. Wilmington is most favorably situated as to the great 
arteries and highways of commerce, having extensive connections by both river and 
rail with North, South and West — her mercantile ramifications extending in every 
direction, and yearly growing larger and more important. One of the great factors in 
her progress has been her jobbing trade, and the history of her wholesale houses, while 
a necessary and integral part of her commercial prosperity, is also interesting and valu- 
able as a historical record, and especially useful for purposes of reference. In 1866 
Messrs. David Aaron and Fred. Rheinstein associated themselves together, under the 
present firm name, in the wholesale dry goods, notions, hat and shoe trade. The house 
soon took rank as the leading wholesale house in this part of the country, a position to 
which they were justly entitled, from^their extensive transactions, the magnitude of their 
stock, and the well-known characteristics of the gentlemen composing the firm. 
Through all the years that it has been in existence, it has maintained, with brightening 
reputation, the perfect system, the high degree of mercantile integrity and the elevated 
business enterprise with which it was inaugurated, and is now, and has been for a num- 
ber of years', universally recognized as the largest wholesale house in the State of North 
Carolina. The business premises of the firm consist of the three stories and basement 
of a building fronting on Front street, 35x82 feet in dimensions, and two floors and the 
basement of the adjoining building. It is one of the most commodious and convenient 
business houses in the country, and larger, perhaps, than in any other city of the size of 
Wilmington in the United States. The immense business is thoroughly organized into 
different departments, managed by competent men, all under the constant supervision of 
the proprietors. In these departments can be found a more extensive assortment of 
goods suited to the wants of the merchants in this section of country than can be found 
in any house in the Stale. It would be both tedious and useless to give a detailed 
description of the immense stock carried — suffice it to say, that it consists of everything 
in the lines of dry goods, notions, boots and shoes, hats and caps, and is larger than 
any house in the State. Twelve assistants are employed in the store and three travehng 
salesmen represent the interests of the house on the road. Their trade is extensive 
throughout the two States of North and South Carolina, amounting annually to about 
half a million dollars. Such a large business gives them great advantages over their com- 
petitors, enabling them to sell goods at a small margin, and at the same time secure for 
themselves satisfactory profits. To attend properly to such a trade requires a system of 



88 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

complete thoroughness and a knowledge of business naturally acquired by a long course 
of education and experience. 

Mr. Aaron has resided in Wilmington for thirty-two years, and Mr. Rheinstein for 
twenty-five years. Their establishment is the leading representative house of Wilming- 
ton, and their name has become co-extensive with the reputation of the city. 

The firm have an office in New York City, thereby enabling them to purchase 
goods at lowest possible prices. 

THE WILMINGTON COTTON MILLS, Front Sireei, between Woosier and Dawson Streets. 

In the commerce of the country the City of Wilmington occupies a prominent and 
important position. Her cotton interests alone make an immense business, while the 
position of the city, as the natural depot for the reception and shipment of this staple 
product for all the surrounding country and a large portion of the cotton producing 
districts, give her special prominence in the rapidly developing South. That cotton is 
an indispensable commodity and all-important auxiliary in civilized countries is univer- 
sally conceded, and its incalculable value to man in supplying his necessities is apparent, 
when the trouble is taken to follow it through the various processes to which it is sub- 
jected to fit it for his use. Seeing the final result, one must acknowledge that cotton, 
as to its value, is not only King but a prime necessity, and one of nature's most import- 
ant and useful contributions to the wants of humanity. In this section, as in every 
other part of the South, this great staple takes the lead, and may be considered the 
main source of the prosperity, wealth and commercial standing of the city. For many 
years this useful article was taken from its natural home to pass into the mills and looms 
of the North, to be woven into the numerous fabrics to which it is adapted. Until but 
a comparatively few years ago it underwent this temporary exile, while the cotton milling 
industries of the country were monopolized by the Middle and New England States. 
After her recovery from the prostration of her commerce and energies caused by the war, 
a new era dawned upon the South, fresh energy and impetus was given to her industries, 
and to-day they stand the successful rivals of those old institutions which boast of their 
age and prestige. With the tide of this irrepressible progress the City of Wilmington 
has steadily kept pace, while to no single enterprise is she more indebted for this ad- 
vancement than to the one which is the subject of this article. This now extensive 
establishment was first organized by a stock company in 1874, and the mills were built 
at an original cost of $150,000. The company was, however, re-organized in 1878, 
with a reduced capital stock of $60,000. The stockholders of the company are among 
the leading citizens of this community, men not only remarkable for their individual 
success in business, but for their promptitude in aiding and encouraging all enterprises 
looking to the advancement of the city and her progress in commercial importance, 
while their names are a sure guarantee of the success of any undertaking in which they 
may interest themselves. The line of goods manufactured at these mills is exclusively 
print cloth, 64x64, and the product is almost entirely sold in New York and Philadel- 
phia. It is the only print cloth mill in the South, and ranks as one of the very best of 
the kind in the country. The plant of the mills covers an area of two whole blocks of 
ground. The main factory is a three-story brick building, 70x120 feet in dimensions. 
In all the machinery, appointments and appliances necessary for speed and perfection 
in results, these mills are as well equipped as any in the country, all being of the most 
improved pattern. No expense has been spared in making improvements conducing 
to a lessening of the cost of production and elevating the standard of excellence of the 
finished product. There are in operation 5,712 spindles, 156 looms, 34 cards, besides 
a full complement of pickers, drawing frames, speeders, slubbers, &c. The motive 
power is furnished by an engine of 100-horse power and a battery of boilers. In the 
various departments forty male and eighty female operatives are employed, to whom 
$450 is paid in weekly wages. The capacity of the mills is 6,000 yards per day of 
eleven hours. 

The officers of the organization are Donald McRae, President, and W. G. Mac- 
Rae, Secretary and Treasurer, both well known as enterprising and public-spirited citi- 
zens, of extended influence and high standing in the community. This important 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 89 

enterprise is not only a splendid monument to the intelligent enterprise of its manage- 
ment, but is one of those concerns whose great and honorable success reflects credit 
and reputation upon the fair name of the city. It stands prominent among the leaders 
of its kind, and holds a commanding position among the industrial institutions of the 
country. 

R. W. HICKS, Grocer and Commission Merchant 

Nos. 120^0 124, M?rt/i Water Street. 

In endeavoring to preserve some record of the commercial establishments of the 
the city by historical and statistical notes, our object in introducing this department of 
our work is attributable more to a desire to gather remembrances and facts of an interest- 
ing and useful nature, than to seek opportunity for personal compliment. But it is quite 
admissable for us to say that Mr. R. W. Hicks, grocer and commission merchant, 
belongs to that class of enterprismg and successful business men who have been prom- 
inently identified with the commercial interests of the city for a number of years past, 
and to whose enterprise and perseverence, as well as sterling integrity and financial 
responsibility, those interests are indebted for much of their present vigor and develop- 
ment. This enterprise was first started in 1878 by the firm of Messrs. Patterson & 
Hicks, who were succeeded by Mr. Hicks as sole proprietor in 1881. Throughout its 
existence the house has had a very successful career, the business gaining strength and 
volume every succeeding year. A large two-story building, 60x90 feet in dimensions, 
is occupied and contains a large assortment of the usual line of goods carried by 
grocery and commission houses, the stock being of an average estimated value of 
$35,000. The concern also has a two-story warehouse, 40x50 feet, and a molasses shed 
15x40 feet. The wharf of this house is 100x400 in area, upon which there is a shed 
200x40 feet in dimensions. Seven assistants are employed, and an annual business of 
$60,000 is transacted in the States of North and South Carolina. 

Mr. Hicks is a North Carolinian by birth, and has resided in this city for fourteen 
years. His establishment sustains in all respects a commanding position in Wilmington, 
and is in a condition to afford buyers all the advantages that result from a clever com- 
bination of business ability and experience, supported by ample capital. 

GEO. A. PECK, Wholesale and Retail Dealer in Hardware, Sash, Doors and Rlinds. 

No. 29 Front Street. 

This estabUshment is one of the oldest and most reliable concerns of the kind in 
the city, and transacts a large and prosperous business. It was established in 1865 by 
the present proprietor. The building occupied is a substantial two-story brick structure, 
30x97 feet in dimensions. The ample stock carried embraces everything included in 
.the general term hardware, both heavy and shelf, together with a full Hne of doors, 
sash and bhnds. Five assistants are employed in the house, and an extensive trade is 
enjoyed, both in the city and throughout the surrounding country. 

Mr. Peck is a native of this city, is well and favorably known in business circles, 
and is an enterprising and energetic merchant. 

G. W. UNDER, Retail Groceries and Liquors, No. 32 Front Street ' 

One of the most enterprising establishments which it is our pleasure to mention in 
connection with the business interest of Wilmington is that of Mr. G.W.Linder, dealer in 
groceries and Uquors. The house was started by Mr. Linder in 1883, and has so far 
been very successful. The building occupied is two stories high and 30x60 feet in 
dimensions. A full stock of the choicest groceries is kept constantly on hand and in 
excellent condition. An extensive trade in the puiest and best brands of wines, liquors 
&c., is also enjoyed. The estimated value of the average assortment of goods kept in 
stock is about $1,500. Two assistants are employed, and the trade of the establish- 
ment, which is entirely local, amounts to from $12,000 to $15,000 per annum. 

Mr. Linder is a native of Denmark, and came to this city ten years ago. He has 
established an enviable business reputation, and enjoys high position among the leading 
retail dealers of the city. 

12 



90 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

WORTH & WORTH, Naval Stores and Cotton. Importers of Molasses and Dealers in 

Groceries, Lime and Cement, Nos. 1 and 2 Mulberry Street. 

Among the representative commercial enterprises of the City of Wilmington that 
of the well-known firm of Messrs. Worth & Worth occupies a position of conspicuous 
and deserved prominence, and is entitled by its magnitude, and the great part it has 
played in the commercial progress of the city, no less than by its extensive operations, 
to a prominent position in this volume. Identified with the trade and commerce of 
the city for a period of over thirty years, it has gained a commercial standing that is 
second to none, and which is shared by few in its lines of trade in any part of the United 
States. The house was founded in 1853, by the firm of T. C. & B. G. Worth ; from 1865 to 
1872 the firm was Worth & Daniel, and in the latter year the present proprietors took 
charge of the business. Their warehouses are four in number, and, together with 
wharves and yards, cover an area of about an acre of ground. They do a general 
commission business in cotton and naval stores, which they receive on consignment and 
sell here in Wilmington to exporters direct. They also import molasses from the West 
Indies, and carry one of the largest stocks of groceries in the city. They are also pre- 
pared at all times to supply the trade with lime and cement in any quantity desired. 
Messrs. Worth & Worth also own the controlling interest in the Cape Fear and People's 
Steamboat Line, which runs two steamers in the trade between this city and Fayette- 
ville, on the Cape Fear River. The firm handles annually about 10,000 bales of 
cotton, 120,000 barrels of rosin and 22,000 barrels of spirits of turpentine, and has in 
its employ twenty persons. 

The firm is composed of Messrs. B. G. and D. G. Worth. The former has lived 
in Wilmington since 1853, and the latter for twenty-two years. They are deservedly 
esteemed among the best class of the representative business men of this community, 
and the City of Wilmington has certainly every reason for congratulation on the 
possesison of so important and prosperous a business enterprise. 

CAPE FEAR & PEOPLE'S STEAMBOAT COMPANY, Worth & Worth, Agents. 

Landing at the foot of Chestnut Street. 

The geographical position of the Cit) of Wilmington is such that it has necessarily 
become a great center, not only commercially, but also as the receiving and distributing 
point for the produce and merchandise of a large, wealthy and productive region, and 
no one enterprise has done more to foster the trade and build up the character and rep- 
utation of the city than the Cape Fear & People's Steamboat Company. It was 
originally estabhshed thirty-five years ago, but the present organization was not effected 
until about twelve years ago, and is the result of a consolidation of two lines of boats. 
Two steamboats are run in the trade between this city and Fayetteville on the Cape 
Fear River, named as follows : The Gov. Worth, a side-wheel boat, and the A. P. 
Hurt, a stern-wheel packet. They make regular trips on schedule time. The mail 
packet is the A. P. Hurt, a steamer of 140 net tonnage, having six staterooms and 
thirtv-four berths. She is allowed to carry thirty-six cabin passengers and thirty-four 
deck passengers. She has two non condensing engines, thirteen inches in diameter, of 
five-foot stroke, and one fifteen-foot boiler, four and one-half feet in diameter. Her 
hull is of iron. Her carrying capacity is 400 barrels. She is commanded by Capt. A. 
H. Worth. 

The Steamer Gov. Worth is 136 feet long 22 feet beam. She was built in 1866 and 
has an iron hull. Her engines are two in number, of a six-foot stroke, sixteen inches 
in diameter, with a five and one-half foot boiler. Her carrying capacity is 1,000 
barrels, and she is universally acknowledged to be the largest and fastest boat on the 
river. 

The officers of the organization are F. W. Kerchuer, President, and D. G. Worth, 
Secretary and Treasurer, In all the details of the management the affairs of the line 
are conducted with a liberal policy and upon a basis of the soundest business principles. 
The traveling pubhc and shippers receive every attention, and the line enjoys a well 
deserved popularity. Messrs. Worth & Worth are the local agents. 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 



91 



THE BANK OF NEW HANOVER, Corner of Front and Princess Sireets. 



No financial institution in the history of this city has been more intimately con- 
nected with the interests of this community, or has had a more uniformly successful 
and prosperous career. It has the largest capital, and with its branches commands the 
most extensive line of deposits and does the largest discounting businness of any bank 
^ ^ - in this section. It was incorporated in 1872, 

with a capital stock of $300,000, and during 
the entire period of its existence has been 
regarded as one of the best managed mone- 
tary concerns in the United States. It is by 
far the largest and most elegantly fitted up 
institution of the kind in the city, the hand- 
some building in which it is located being 
owned by the bank, and the interior arrange- 
ments and appointments are exceptionally 
convenient, attractive and substantial. Among 
the officers and directors at the present time 
will be found names closely identified with 
the history of Wilmington in her progress 
and prosperity, and the advancement and 
development of her business interests and 
manufacturing and commercial resources. 
The present officers of the institution are the 
following well-known gentlemen : Isaac 
Bates, President; S. D. Wallace, Cashier, 
and Wm. L. Smith, Jr., teller. A general 
banking business is conducted in loans, 
discounts, deposits, and exchange on all 
the important points in the United States and 
Europe. Conducted in all its affairs upon a policy of the highest standard of com- 
mercial honor, liberal yet conservative, the Bank of New Hanover is certainly entitled 
to the great prosperity it has attained, and is at the same time deserving of the 
confidence, esteem and consideration of the public. Some idea can be gained of 
the successful results attending the management of its affairs from the following state- 
ment of the condition of the institution on February 4, 1884: 




RESOURCES : 



liabilities: 



Loans and Discounts $ 840,453 59fCapital Stock $ 300,000 00 



Due by other Banks. . . .$212,668 67 
Currency and Specie ... . 186,841 85 
Checks on other Banks. . 25,374 85-424,885 37 

Real Estate 79,599 24 

Office Furniture and Safes 7,082 37 

Bonds and Stocks 48,813 69 

Checks and Drafts in Transit 5,001 59 



$1,405,835 85 



Due Depositors 953,789 43 

Due other Banks 65,125 71 

Surplus Fund 86,920 71 



$1,405,835 85 



THE NAVASSA GUANO COMPANY, Manufacturers of Fertilizers and Sulphuric 

and Muriatic Acids. 
The great importance of these enterprises engaged in the manufacture of artificial 
fertilizers cannot be overestimated. Apart from their great value to the agricultural 
interests of the South, they are of vast importance in the prominent and active part they 
take in the promotion and advancement of the general welfare and industrial thrift of 
the communities in which they are located. One of the most prominent enterprises 
organized by Wilmington capital, whose operations have already assumed mammoth 
proportions, is that of the Nayassa Guano Company. The company was organized by 
a number of influential and wealthy gentlemen of this city in 1869, with a capital stock 
of $200,000. The factory is situated four miles from the city, the plant covering an 
area of ten acres of ground. It occupies a most advantageous position for shipping 



92 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

purposes, being on the lines of all railroads entering the city, and also on the river. 
The institution is extensive in proportions, the factory buildings being twenty in number. 
There have been erected on the premises twenty tenement houses for the accomodation 
of the employes of the company. The machinery and appliances in use for grinding, 
crushing and mixing the raw materials used are of the very latest and most improved 
pattern, while in general arrangement and equipment the works are unsurpassed by any 
similar establishment in the country. The motive power is steam, which is supplied by 
three engines aggregating 175-horse power. They manufacture fertilizers of various 
grades, in addition to sulphuric and muriatic acid, having a capacitv of 2,000 tons per 
month. A force of 125 persons is employed, to whom $1,000 is paid weekly. The 
company has become famous all over the South as the manufacturers of the -'Navassa 
Guano," which is one of the most powerful and reliable fertilizers known to agricultur- 
ists. Their transactions extend throughout the entire South, amounting to $750,000 
annually. The company also owns an extensive rice plantation of about 400 acres, 
situated' between the works and the city, which yields between ten and fifteen thousand 
bushels of rice yearly. 

The President of the organization is Hon. R. R. Bridgers, ex-member of Congress 
from this District. The Secretary and Treasurer is Donald MacRae, Esq., and Col. C. 
L. Grafflin is the Superintendent. Under such control this important enterprise has be- 
come one of the leading industrial institutions of the entire South, and its great success, 
that would, under other circumstances, appear somewhat extraordinary, seems only the 
natural result of its able and enterprising management. 

C, S. LOVE & CO., General Commission Merchants, 

Office Water Street, between Dock and Market Streets. 

Among the prominent and influential firms engaged in the above Hne of business 
in this city there is none which stands higher than that of Messrs. C. S. Love & Co. 
The business was started by the firm in 1877, and has proven a highly successful under- 
taking. They employ six assistants and do an annual business of $120,000. Messrs. 
C. S. Love and T. D. Love, Jr., constitute the individual members of this old and 
reliable house. Their business is conducted in all its various details upon principles of 
pure mercantile integrity, and as a firm they are deserving of special •consideration in a 
work of this character designed for general circulation. It is not too much to say that 
no house in the city is more generally or favorably known. They have ample capital 
and possess every facility for the successful carrying on of their large operations. 

BLADEN STEAMBOAT COMPANY, Office Wafer Street, between Market and Dock Streets^ 

As the commercial and industrial interests of Wilmington are so large and varied, 
it is a matter of necessity that her transportation facilities and shipping interests should 
be correspondingly large. In this connection the above line is worthy of special con- 
sideration. They make two trips per week from Wilmington to Fayetteville on Cape 
Fear River. The company owns and runs in this trade the steamer "Bladen," which is 
125 feet long, twenty-one feet beam and five feet hold. It has a capacity of 100 tons and 
can accomodate 300 people. Twenty five persons are employed on board. The boat 
is in command of Capt. T. J. Green, who is an old and experienced steamboatman. 

The officers of the organization are T. D. Love, President, and C. S. Love, Sec- 
retary and Treasurer. Both of these gentlemen are fully conversant with the wants of 
the shipping and traveling public, and are able to afford shippers the very lowest rates 
of freight. It is with pleasure that we are able to commend this line to the public, be- 
ing, as it is, thoroughly equipped and efficiently managed. The impetus given to the 
industries of this community by the capital and enterprise of this company is not un- 
recognized, and the general consideration with which it is regarded is the natural out 
growth of a career, which ever since its beginning has embodied the highest principles 
of integrity and commercial honor. 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 93 

GEO. R. FRENCH & SO/I/S, Wholesale and Retail Boots and Shoes. 

No. 108 North Front Street. 

In the preparation of a work of this kind no pleasanter task falls to the duty of 
the editor than that of presenting to the world the character and personnel of the 
leaders of thought and action, and reviewing the results of their enterprise and 
energy in the busy drama of everyday life. Men who give both impress and impulse 
to commercial history are not only '' the abstract chroniclers of their day," but they are 
the guides of the people in mercantile education and heralds of the broad progress that 
marks American trade. For broad grasp and executive abilities, for leadership, men 
moving upon the stage of active business life have proven their superiority in the pub- 
lic estimation, not only in business pursuits, but to grapple with and manage the most 
abstruse points and problems of political econemy. There is more true ability, more 
statesmanship, if one may so call it, in the circle of commercial enterprise, in the 
practical solution of commercial problems and the application of correct theories of 
trade, than can be found in the halls of legislation. The true American statesman, of 
broad views and successful action, are the leading merchants, the founders and the 
heads of great commercial and manufacturing enterprises. It is, therefore, with more 
than ordinary satisfaction that we pen this historical sketch of a business founded in 
early days by a gentleman yet living hale and hearty, at a ripe old age, who has made 
a rare record of mercantile success and gained an enviable position among the com- 
mercial leaders of the age in his State and city, and who furnishes an encouraging 
example to the actors yet young in the busy drama of modern mercantile progress. 
The history of the commercial activity of Wilmington has produced few examples so 
marked and substantial as that which has attended the career of Geo. R. French, Sr., 
the senior member and founder of the leading boot and shoe house of Messrs. Geo. R. 
French & Sons. Within the period of its existence this establishment has taken posi- 
tion at the head of this branch of trade, and achieved a success commensurate with the 
known and recognized ability of its management. The boot and shoe trade of the 
city, standing next in importance to dry goods and groceries, affords a pleasing illustra- 
tion of what can be accomplished by a firm of enterprising and liberal merchants. In 
1822 Mr. George R. French, Sr., came to this city from Massachusetts and established 
himself in his present line of business. He pursued his affairs industriously, and with 
the earnest purpose of building up an establishment that would eventually stand in the 
front rank of commercial enterprises. Of his success it is not necessary for us to enter 
into extended comment. In 1866 the existing firm was formed by the admission into 
partnership of the sons of the proprietor, and a movement was made from the old 
quarters on Market street, where the business had been so long conducted, to North 
Front street, between Market and Princess, where, having purchased the vacant prop- 
erty, the firm proceeded to construct a large three-story brick building, with iron front 
and glass on the first floor — it being the first building of its kind constructed in the city, 
and was at its completion the handsomest store in the city. At that time North Front 
street was either used as a place for dwellings or small stores, and being out of the 
usual haunts of trade, many predicted failure on their part to carry trade so far up 
street, but with energy and foresight the firm succeeded, and soon by building other 
stores and alterations of old buildings, they surrounded themselves with other lines, and 
the success of the movement was assured, and Front street took its place as a business 
street and has continued to increase in estimation of the people each year. Business con- 
tinuing to increase in a few years, the present four-story iron front building was erected by 
the firm and handsomely fitted up, being the first full iron front erected in the city, and the 
business was moved into it in September, 1873. At this time Mr. Chas. E. French was placed 
in charge of the retail department, and continued to manage the same until some three 
years since, when he removed to Minneapolis, Minnesota, to become a partner in the 
large flour business in Crown Roller Mills, conducted under the firm name of J. A. 
Christian & Co., Mr. Jas. McD. French now being a salesman on the road. At the 
present time the control and management of all the affairs of the house are in the hands 
of Messrs. Wm. A. French and Geo.R. French, Jr., although their father is still as active 
as most men are at sixty-five. The business premises of the firm are centrally located 



94 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE 

on one of the principal business thoroughfares of the city, the building being 25x131 
feet in dimensions, and having four floors. Eight assistants are employed in the house, 
and two traveling salesmen are kept constantly on the road. Their trade extends 
throughout both North and South Carolina. 

They carry the largest and most complete stock of boots, shoes, gaiters and 
slippers that is to be found in the State, the entire four floors of their building being 
used for storage of their goods. 

The influence of this representative establishment upon the trade, reputation and 
prosperity of the city has been in the past, and still contmues to be of the very highest 
importance, and attests in an eminent degree the commercial spirit and enterprise of the 
City of Wilmington. 

The management has been in the hands of the sons since the war, who have built 
three stores and four dwellings, besides being among the original starters of the Wil- 
mington Cotton Mills. 

NEW YORK AND WILMINGTON STEAMSHIP COMPANY, 

Office Corner of Water and Chestnut Streets. 

It is to ocean navigation and her excellent advantage as a seaport that the City 
of Wilmington owes her present and past prosperity. The carrying trade of the city is 
one of the mosfimportant in the country, and especially deserving of favorable consid- 
eration in a volume of this kind. Of the several steamship lines connecting Wilmington 

with other ports, the New 

>-^ __^-^''^^^_ ^^Jf^ _L York & Wilmington Steam- 

ship Line is by far the most 
miportant. The line is com- 
posed of three steamers, the 
'Gulf Stream," "Regulator" 
land "Benefactor," which, ac- 
cording to the requirements of 
business, form a semi-weekly 
fast freight line between the 
two cities and via their connections carry property under through bills of lading, and at 
lowest through rates between Boston, Fall River, Providence and interior eastern and 
western cities and Wilmington, and interior cities in North and South Carolina. 
The " Gulf Stream" is 998 tons, 215 feet long and 32 feet beam. 
The "Regulator" is 847 tons, 182 feet long and 36 feet beam. 
The " Benefactor" is 844 tons, 184 feet long and 36 feet beam. 
The vessels are commanded by experienced officers and seamen. The company 
uses the wharves of Messrs. Kerchuer & Calder Bros., of this city, in the transaction of 
their business, and employ forty persons in different capacities. The general agents ^of 
the line in New York are Messrs. W. P. Clyde & Co. The resident Superintendent at 
Wilmington is H. G. Smallbones, a gentleman fully alive to the interests of his company 
and popular with all those with whom he has business relations. 

To no single enterprise, perhaps, is the City of Wilmington more indebted for 
superior shipping and carrying facilities. 

CHAS. P. MEBANE, Ship Broker, Ship Agent and Commission Merchant, 

Corner of Dock and Water Streets. 

The foreign trade of the City of Wilmington is the prime factor in the sum total of 
her commercial interests. Large quantities of rosin, spirits of turpentine, tar, lumber 
and cotton are constantly being shipped from this port to the United Kingdom, the 
Continent and points on the Baltic and Mediterranean. Any enterprise, therefore, 
connected with the shipping and maritime interests of the city is one that demands fit- 
ting recognition in a work devoted to a review of the city's advantages, resources and 
future possibilities. One of the most important and a leading one of the kind in the 
city is that of Mr. C. P. Mebane, ship broker, agent and commission merchant. It 




WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 95 

was established by that gentleman in 1879, and its immediate success is a sure guarantee 
of future prosperity and usefulness. The business done in the winter of 1882-83 
sufficiently attests its great benefit to this community. The following is the aggregate : 

Number of vessels 66 

Register tons 25,257 

Cargoes, cotton (bales) 23,676 

" rosin (bbls) 89,605 

" spirits " 24,928 

" tar " 1,300 

Aggregate gross freight ^47,665 

Prompt replies are guaranteed to all letters and telegrams. Parties sending vessels 
to this port should direct letters for captains and crews to the care of this agency, thus 
insuring their prompt delivery on arrival of vessels. Consignments of vessels and 
offers for charters are solicited at all times by Mr. Mebane, and all persons entrusting 
matters to his care can safely rely upon prompt and satisfactory attention. 

Mr. Mebane is a native of Richmond, Virginia, but has resided in this city for a 
period of seventeen years. Public spirited, energetic and liberal, he is held in high 
esteem in all the various walks of life. 

His cable address is " Mebane," Wilmington. 

£. J. POWERS GUANO COMPANY, Office Corner of Front and Princess Streets. 

The trade in fertilizers is of very important consideration in reviewing the commer- 
cial interests of the city, and deserves especial attention at our hands. In 1882 a most 
valuable addition to this branch of the city's business was acquired by the establishment 
here of an office and branch of the E. J. Powers Guano Company of New York, an 
establishment whose immense shipments of fertilizers from New York and Europe to 
all parts of the great cotton belt have given it a wide-spread reputaion in commercial 
circles. In this city all sales are made by order and a very heavy business is transacted. 
Fifty persons are employed in handling guano and making shipments for the concern. 
The amount handled annually at the present time is about 6,000 tons, representing a 
business of $100,000 per annum. 

E, J. Powers, Esq., the proprietor, lives in New York City, but his affairs here are 
ably and intelligently managed under his own immediate supervision. 



HOLLINGSWORTH & CO., Livery, Sale and Excliange Stable, 

Corner of Fourth and Mulberry Streets 
There are several large establishments engaged in this useful line of business in 
Wilmington, among the most prominent of which is that of Messrs. Hollingsworth & 
Co. The enterprise was first established in 1882 by the firm of Merritt & Hollingsworth, 
which was succeeded by Messrs. Hollingsworth & Walker. The present firm was 
formed and took control of the establishment February 1st, 1884. Their stable build- 
ing is a one-story frame structure, 60x120 feet in dimensions, and they also have a large 
stock-yard for the use and benefit of all stock consigned to them for either sale or ex- 
change. They have facilities for the convenient handling of about sixty head of horses 
and mules. Their arrangements are all first-class in every respect and terms reason- 
able. In their livery department they have twenty safe and speedy animals, and a 
well selected variety of buggies and other vehicles for public use. They employ six 
careful and competent assistants, besides personally supervising all the details of the 
business. They have at all tim.es on hand both horses and mules to supply the wants 
of their customers, and their business facilities and arrangements for procuring stock 
both for sale and exchange, are unsurpassed. 

The individual members of the firm are Messrs. O. R. Hollingsworth. Mr. Hol- 
lingsworth is a North Carolinian by birth, and is well and favorably known in the 
community, where he has resided for about five years. He is a gentlemen of extended 
experience in this line of business and thoroughly comprehends its every detail. The 
firm commences business under the most favorable auspices and gives every promise of 



96 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

a future of usefulness and success. We may also add that Messrs. Hollinsworth & Co. 
are supplied with two fine hearses for funerals — one for white persons and another for 
colored. They are prepared to furnish everything in their line for funerals at most 
reasonable terms. 

WOODY & CURRIE, General Commission Merchants, No. 105 North Water Street, 

No firm in the city stands higher in commercial Hfe than do Messrs. Woody & 
Currie, nor has any establishment better advantages or greater facilities. Wilmington 
is the great distributing point for the products of a large section of the country^ and, as 
a natural consequence, the commission business is not only a very lucrative one, but also 
one of enormous proportions. The firm of Messrs. Woody & Currie is one of the most 
substantial and reliable in the city, and transact a very large business throughout both 
North and South Carolina. It was originally estabUshed by Mr. Woody in 1870, who 
continued the business until 1875, when Mr. Currie was admitted into partnership, un- 
der the present firm name and style. They occupy for business purposes a building two 
stories high, 35x80 feet in dimensions, centrally located and conveniently arranged. In 
the different departments of their business they employ fourteen assistants, and their an- 
nual transactions exceed half a million of dollars. 

The individual members of the firm are Messrs. John D. Woody and John H. 
Currie, both North Carolinians by birth. Mr. Woody has resided in Wilmington for 
fourteen years, and Mr. Currie for nine years. They are thoroughly reliable, energetic 
and enterprising busmess men, and justly rank among the leading commission houses 
of the city. 

WILMINGTON COMPRESS & WAREHOUSE COMPANY, 

Water Street, above Carolina Central Railroad. 

It goes without saying that cotton takes the lead of all agricultural products, not 
only in this, but also in almost everv other part of the South, both in the quantity pro- 
duced and its value. This most useful staple, from its adaptability to the manufacture 
of so many articles, both of utility and ornament, presents a most interesting record of 
agricultural achievement, and is, indisputably, the most potent ruler of the vegetable 
kingdom, wielding in its might and power a scepter of unlimited influence. Wilmington 
being a great center of trade and commerce, and a seaport of considerable importance, na- 
turally handles an immense amount of cotton. As a point for its reception and shipment 
all over the world, no city in the country can offer superior advantages and facilities. 
This fact is generally recognized, and it is to the cotton trade, in all its diff"erent 
branches, that the city is more indebted for her past and present commercial import- 
ance and prosperity than to any other agency. To no one enterprise does she owe as 
much for the important position she occupies as a point for the reception and distribu- 
tion of the product of a large section of the South, as to the Wilmington Compress and 
Warehouse Company. It was the first company to erect presses in this city after the 
war, and enjoys the best of facilities for the handling of cotton. The largest sized ves- 
sels from all parts of the world can readily enter this port and load directly at their 
wharves, thereby saving a heavy expense in the matter of drayage and literage. The 
company was organized in 1875, with a paid up capital stock of $85,000. Their wharves, 
warehouse and presses are located on Water street, in the northern portion of the city, 
adjoining the terminus of the Carolina Central Railraod. The presses are two in num- 
ber, of the latest and most improved pattern. One is a Taylor Steam and Hydraulic 
Press of an estimated pressure of 1,500 tons, and the other a Tylor Steam Press of 
1,000 tons pressure. The capacity of the two presses is 1,500 bales every ten hours. The 
company handles on the average from 60,000 to 70,000 bales per annum, but are able 
to handle fully 150,000. They employ forty-five persons, to whom $350 is paid 
weekly. The warehouse is 360x410 feet in dimensions, and has a storage capacity of 
10,000 bales of cotton. It is used for the storage of cotton purchased by local merchants. 
Cotton for foreign shipment is compressed for vessels, and from this source is derived 
a very large revenue. 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 97 

It is a business that has steadily increased since its introduction here, and when 
the many advantages offered to shippers at this port become generally known, it will 
mevitably assume much larger proportions. The officers of the organization are Geo. 
W. WiUia.-ns, President, and Geo. Sloan, Secretary and Treasurer. Mr. Williams is 
also Vice President of the Bank of New Hanover. Under the management and direc- 
tion of these gentlemen, the success that has attended the operations of the company in 
the past, can be easily accounted for, and a future of increasing prosperity and useful- 
ness is as certainly assured. 

EXPRESS STEAMBOAT COMPANY, Office at G. W. Williams & Co.'s Store. 

As the City of Wilmington occupies so favorable a position upon Cape Fear River 
with reference to the interior of the State, it is but natural that to the navigation of that 
river she is largely indebted for her commercial and manufacturing importance, and the 
prosperity she enjoys. The Express Steamboat Company is an organization which was 
incorporated in 1865, and specially founded for the purpose of actively promoting the 
commerce and industries of the city, and the territory along the river tributary to it, as 
well as for that remuneration to which its wise, energetic and liberal management entitles 
it. The boats of this hne ply between Wilmington and Fayette ville, making two trips 
each per week. The boats are two in number — the Steamer Murchision of 120 tons 
burden, and the Steamer Wave of 100 tons burden. The former can accommodate 
fifty passengers, the latter forty. Both vessels have iron hulls and are staunch and 
speedy. They are commanded by experienced and obliging officers, who give every 
attention to the comfort of the traveler and make every effort to oblige the shippers of 
freight. The company has a capital stock of $30,000, and is officered as follows : H. 
C. McQueen, President, and Mike Cronley, Jr., Secretary. Mr. McQueen was born 
in this State, and has resided in this city for eighteen years. He is still a young man, 
energetic and enterprising, and is thoroughly identified with the best interests and pros- 
perity of the community. Mr. Cronley is a native of this city, and since his connection 
with the company has taken an active and prominent part in placing its affairs upon the 
firm and secure foundation upon which they rest to-day. 

THE PURCELL HOUSE, B. L. Perry, Proprietor, 

Front Street, between Market and Princess. 

In a review of a city as a commercial and manufacturing center, including com- 
ment upon her institutions of worthy mention, there is, perhaps, no line of business 
more appropriate for special attention, or affording more universal interest to those 
engaged in all branches of business who may be called upon to visit the city than that 
connected with the accomodation of the travehng public. The City of Wilmington 
certainly commands a position essentially calling for first-class hotel accomodations of 
large capacity and intelligent management. In this regard the Purcell House is in all 
respects up to the standard and is the leading hotel in this section, unsurpassed in its 
appointments and the excellence of its supervision. It was originally established in 
1867, and came into the hands of its present proprietor in 1881. The building is a 
four-story structure, with a frontage on Front street of 135 feet and a depth of 135 feet. 
It contains seventy-five sleeping apartments — light, comfortable and neat — besides two 
large and handsomely furnished parlors, and can accomodate 150 guests. The dining 
room is large and neat, and is capable of seating 130 persons. The table is at all times 
supplied with the best the market affords. The house is lighted by gas throughout, is 
furnished with electric bells and has water on every floor. There is both a bar and 
barber-shop attached, each creditable in its appointments. Thirty-two servants and at- 
taches are employed, whose monthly wages amount to $600. The office is on the first 
floor, and is presided over by two competent and experienced hotel clerks. 

The proprietor, Mr. B. L. Perry, is a most capable and clever gentleman, and un- 
der his efficient management the Purcell House is in the enjoyment of a most enviable 
reputation and a liberal patronage. 
13 



98 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE* 

A. A. WILLARD, Importer and Dealer in Salt and Cotton Buyer, 

No. 212 North Water Street. 

In reference to the commercial and industrial interests of this large and growing 
city, the importation and trade in salt, owing to its rapidly increasing proportions, is en- 
titled to prominent mention in this work. This could not well be done without making 
more than mere passing notice of the well-established and important enterprise of Mr. 
A. A. Willard. He commenced this line of business in 1865, just after the close of 
the war, and has safely conducted it to its present influential position in the trade. 
He has three large warehouses on the opposite side of the river and one on this side 
for the reception and storage of cargoes of salt imported from England to this port, and 
makes shipments to all prominent points in North and South Carolina and Georgia, 
having in warehouses an average stock of about 20,000 sacks. His business premises 
at No. 212 North Water street are centrally located in the trade circles of the city, the 
building being a two-story structure, 60x40 feet in size. An extensive business is also 
carried on in the purchase of cotton. He employs altogether twenty-five persons. 

Mr. Willard came to this city after the close of the war, and has ever since been 
fully identified with the growth, prosperity and commercial progress of the city. 

M. S. WILLARD, General Insurance Agent, No. 212 North Water Street. 

In every city of the size and importance of Wilmington it is imperative that the 
vast amount of insurance business necessarily transacted should pass through the hands 
of reliable and responsible agents. The business of insurance is indeed so important 
a one in all civilized, and especially commercial countries, that there is in truth no surer 
index by which to judge of the growth of a city in trade and population, than the ag- 
gregate amount of insurance carried by her people. Estimated by such a standard, 
this city surely takes prominent position. The general agency of Mr. M. S. Willard 
was established in this city in March, 1881, and soon came to be considered one of the 
best and most reliable in the community. He represents and is General Agent for 
North Carolina of the following solvent and substantial companies : Northern (Fire) 
Assurance Company, which pays all losses without discount; the Fire Insurance As- 
sociation of London, which has $640,200 in U. S. bonds deposited; British and Foreign 
Marine Insurance Company, with assets of over $4,000,000; the Boston Marine Insur- 
ance Company of Massachusetts, which is the most successfully managed marine 
insurance company in the United States, and the Accident Insurance Company of 
North America, the only company transacting an exclusively accident business. Mr. 
Willard is also the local agent of the Mutual Life Insurance Company of New York, 
The aggregate assets of the ibove companies is over $140,000,000. Mr. Willard aiso 
has under his control thirteen agencies, in different parts of the State, of the Accident 
Insurance Company of North America, and pays all their losses within the boundaries 
of North Carolina. He transacts a business of over $48,000 per annum from premium 
receipts, his transactions for 1883 over the year preceding increasing fully one hundred 
per cent. He is a native of this State and has lived in this city since 1865. He pos- 
sesses in a high degree energy, business tact, sound judgment and the other requisite 
qualifications of a successful insurance agent, and ranks as an enterprising and esteemed 
member of this community. 

F. M. KING & Co., Manufacturers of Tinware and Dealers in Stoves 

and House Furnishing Goods, No. 25 Market Street. 

Among the successful business enterprises in this part of the city, the stove, tin- 
ware and house-furnishing goods establishment of Messrs. F. M. King & Co. occupies 
a leading and prominent position, and is a representative in its particular line. The 
business was commenced by the present firm about seven years ago, and has grown to 
its present proportions through the energy, enterprise and intelligent direction of its 
proprietors. They occupy three floors and the basement of a building, 16x90 feet in 
dimensions, where they carry on hand, to meet the demands and requirements of the 
trade, a stock averaging from $7,000 to $8,000 in value. They manufacture all kinds 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 99 

of tinware and keep in stock a complete assortment of house-furnishing goods of all 
kinds, together with stoves suitable to the trade of this locality and of the very best' 
makes. Their extensive experience in the business enables the firm to readily compre- 
hend the wants of the public, and the quickness with which they supply all demands 
has been largely instrumental in bringing about their signal success. They employ 
eight assistants, transact an annual business, locally and throughout the surrounding 
country, aggregating $30,000, and their transactions for 1883 increased fully fifteen per 
cent, over those of the year "preceding. 

The firm is composed of Messrs. F. M. and William E. King, both natives of this 
city. Thoroughly identified with the progressive spirit of the day, and possessed of 
the essential requisites of sound judgment and prudence in all business transactions, 
they present the strongest claims to popular favor in those departments of trade in which 
they are engaged. 

JOHN DYER & SON, Tailors and Haberdashers, No. 34 North Front Street. 

This well-known and popular establishment is the leading one of the kind engaged 
in this branch of business in the city. The establishment was started by the present 
firm February 1st, 1880, and a steady application to businesSj a thorough knowledge of 
Its details and requirements, and a liberal policy soon brought them the largest trade in 
the city, and gained for their establishment customers who have always remained with 
them. It is generally recognized as one of the solid and substantial firms of the 
city. At their store will be found all styles of the very best foreign and domestic goods, 
which they are prepared to make up at reasonable prices and m the very latest style. 
Their clothing is remarkable for being made from exceptionably good material, for 
stylish cutting and finish, for perfect fits and the extensive assortment of styles and 
qualities from which selections can at all times be made. Their advantages and experi- 
ence enable them to offer inducements to customers that cannot be duplicated by any 
similar establishment in the city. Their word can always be implicitly reUed on as to 
the quality of their goods; but their large and rapidly increasing trade is sufficient and 
stronger evidence than we could give as to the merit and popularity of the house. So 
rapid has been the progress made in the last three years that their business has increased 
in a greater ratio than that of any mercantile house in the city. Ten skilled and ex- 
perienced hands are kept constantly employed at remunerative wages, and an average 
stock valued at $6,000 is carried, from which an annual business of $24,000 is trans- 
acted, both locally and throughout the State. 

The individual members of the firm are Messrs. John and George R. Dyer. The 
former is a native of Ireland, but has resided in this city for thirty years ; the latter was 
born in Wilmington. They are regarded as enterprising, honorable and liberal mer- 
chants, who have prosecuted a successful trade through the legitimate channels of 
commerce, are justly regarded as the first in their line, and are fully entitled to the con- 
sideration and esteem in which they are universally held. 

Mr. Geo. R. Dyer, of this firm, is the manager of the Opera House, a sketch of 
which institution elsewhere appears. 

IVM. GOODMAN, Clothing, Gents' Furnishing Goods and Dry Goods, 

No. 8 Market Street. 

Of the several leading houses engaged in this line of trade it is safe to say that the 
establishment of Mr. Goodman is the most extensive, as well for the amount of stock 
carried, as the magnitude of its operations. The business was first started in 1867, and 
has proven a marked and gratifying success. The stock carried on hand will average 
from $18,000 to $20,000, and embraces everything in the way of ready-made clothing, 
gents' furnishing goods, dry goods, &c. The building occupied is a two-story brick 
structure, 24x67 feet in dimensions. Three assistants are employed, and an annual 
business is transacted throughout the city and surrounding country, amounting to 
$50,000. 

Mr. Goodman is a German by birth, but has resided in this city for a period of 
twenty-three years. He is a reliable business man, of unblemished reputation, and 
stands high in the estimation and consideration of the public. 



100 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE, 

HEIDE & CO., Importers of Feriilizers and Salt, Ship Brokers 

and Commission Merchants, No. 6 South Water Street. 

There are many commercial and mercantile enterprises in this city that are worthy 
of extended consideration and favorable mention on these pages, and are deserving, 
perhaps, of fuller notice than the scope and design of this work will admit. Among 
these that of Messrs. Heide «&: Co. is one of the most promient. Mr. R. E. Heide 
came to this city in 1849, and established himself m business m 1851. In 1853 he 
moved to FayetteviUe, but in 1866 returned to Wilmington and opened a large whole- 
sale grocery house in connection with his other business, but discontinued the grocery 
house in 1870, and confined himself to the trade in which he is now engaged. He im- 
ports large quantities of both salt and fertilizers and carries on a general commission 
business, and is also a ship-broker. He charters annually about 100 vessels of from 
250 to 700 tons burden, and does a large business in Norfolk, Savannah, Charleston and 
Brunswick, as well as in this city. He has ample capital and has met with the most 
satisfactory results in his business career. His ofifice is large and commodious, and three 
clerks are kept constantly employed. 

Mr. Heide was born in Denmark, and is now Vice Consul at this port for Denmark, 
Sweeden and Norway. He is a thoroughly experienced business man, perfectly famil- 
iar with every detail of the trade in which he is engaged, devoting his personal attention 
to its management, and enjoys the confidence, esteem and respect of the entire com- 
munity, with whose best interests he has been closely identified for so many years. 



GEO. HI. CRAPON, Retail Grocer, No. 22 South Front Street. 

The establishment of Mr. Crapon, although only started in 1883, is already one of 
the best known and most popular in the city, and has proven a marked success from the 
very beginning. His place of business is located at No. 22 South Front street, the 
building being 25x75 feet in dimensions. He carries a full and complete stock of the 
choicest and purest staple and fancy groceries, the assortment averaging $1,500 in val 
ue. His facilities and advantages are of the most desirable character, and he is at all 
times prepared to offer his patrons inducements, both as to the quality and price of 
goods, unsurpassed by any of his contemporaries. His trade is entirely local and 
amounts to the handsome sum of $20,000 annually, requiring the assistance of three 
employes. 

Mr. Crapon is a native of this State, and has resided in Wilmington for fourteen 
years. The manner in which his business is conducted is an obvious evidence of his 
superior business qualifications, and a standing guarantee of his increasing usefulness 
and prosperity. 

G. I. BONEY, Pearl Hominy and Grist Mill, Commission Merchant, No. 318 Nutt Street. 

The foundation of this important business enterprise was laid in 1873 by the firm 
f)f Messrs. G. Boney & Sons. In 1883 the present proprietor succeeded to the busi- 
ness. As first commenced, the transactions of the house were in the line of the general 
commission business, but on the first of May Mr. Boney will add to his other business a 
large pearl hominy and grist mill. The building is 50x62 feet in dimensions, three 
stories high, and is now being equipped with all the latest and most improved machin- 
ery and appliances known to this branch of indusiry. The mill will have four run of 
meal stones, one hominy burr, one hominy mill, and the motive power will be furnished 
by an engine of 75-horse power. The capacity of the mill will be twenty barrels of 
hominy and 500 bushels of meal per day. Mr. Boney still continues his other busi- 
ness, which extends throughout North and South Carolina. 

Mr. Boney was born in this State, and has resided in Wilmington for eleven years. 
He is closely identified with the growth and prosperity of the city, and takes great in- 
terest in local affairs, being at the present time a member of the Board of Aldermen 
from the Second Ward, and is Chairman of the Democratic Executive Committee of 
New Hanover County. In commercial circles he enjoys a high reputation as one of 
the representative business men of the city. 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 



101 



T. J. SOUTHERLAND, Livery and Sale Stable, Nos. 108 and 110 Second Street 

In enumerating the various branches of business important to the pleasure and 
comfort of the general public, as well as to its necessities, we find none more worthy of 
extended notice than that in which Mr. Southerland is engaged. His establishment is 
one of those instances of enterprise and success that are deserving of special consider- 
ation in a work of this kind. The livery and 
sales stables are situated on Second street, where 
a substantial two story building, 60x310 feet in 
dimensions, admirably adapted to the business, 
is occupied and equipped in the most complete 
manner possible. It has 100 stalls and from 150 
to 200 horses can be easily handled. Mr. South- 
erland also has another stable at the corner of 
Second and Princess streets, which is a two-story 
structure, 66x160 feet in size, which he uses for 
his stock. He has from twenty to forty horses 
for use for livery purposes, and possesses a fine 
variety of buggies, carriages, phaetons, &c., all 
of elegant style and finish, and of the best 
makes, special care bemg taken that everything 
turned out from the establishment is supplied 
with all the requisites for safety and comfort. 
Twenty-one assistants are employed ; the stables 
are noted for their cleanliness, and the feed and 
care provided for the animals under his charge is of that class which a lengthened ex- 
perience, a thorough knowledge of their wants and ample capital can only supply. 
This establishment does the largest business in the city, and none in this section enjoys 
a higher reputation. 

Mr. Southerland is a North Carolinian by birth, and has resided in Wilmington 
for thirty-three years. He will always be found a courteous and agreeable gentleman 
in both social and business relations, and his establishment stands highest in the appre- 




ciation and esteem of the community. 



ATKINSON & MANNING, Fire, Marine and Life Insurance. 

Office, Bank of New Hanover Building. 

Insurance or assurance — relative terms of like general signification — maybe defined 
to be a contract of indemnity, whereby one party, in consideration of a specified pay- 
ment called a premium, undertakes to guarantee another against risk of loss. The first 
insurance company in England was the "Amicable," organized in 1696, and is, or at 
least up to a few years ago, was still in existence ; and so insurance has progressed and 
come down to modern times, constantly increasing in usefulness and popularity. The 
place in this community occupied by the agency of Messrs. Atkinson & Manning is 
such that, in compiling the commercial, manufacturing and other advantages of the 
City of Wilmington, our work would be incomplete were we to omit mention of an 
institution which adds materially to the solvency and solidity of her mercantile enter- 
prises, by affording that protection and security guaranteed only by the best under- 
writing organizations in this country and in Europe. The business of insurance has 
become a great factor in the transaction ot the world's commerce. It is a .distinct 
business, in the prosecution of which a most delicate relationship must be observed by 
the agents whose duty it is to zealously guard the interests of the insured equally with 
those of the companies they represent. Acting in this dual capacity, each alike im- 
portant to his good standing and reputation, a successful agent must necessarily be the 
possessor of a high order of business talent and perso.ial integrity. Not only the ability 
to properly construct a policy binding and equitable, but also the judgment to estimate 
values and determine liabilities must be possessed. A reliable agency can, therefore, 
only be ascertained by the duration and extent of its business, the standing of the 
companies represented, and the satisfaction manifested by its patrons. Applying these 



102 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

positive tests, the establishment of Messrs. Atkinson & Manning must be recognized as 
the representative underwriting agency of Wilmington. It is not only the largest in the 
entire South, but one of the most extensive in the United States. It was established in 
1865 by Mr. Atkinson, who continued the business until 1873, when the present firm 
was formed. Referring to our remarks as to duration of existence being one of the 
tests of reliability, it will be seen that these gentlemen have a long and extensive 
experience in this line of business, always representing the most prominent, wealthy 
and reliable companies in the world. They now represent the following fourteen com- 
panies, the aggregate of whose assets is $150,000,000: 

Queen Fire Insurance Company, North British and Mercantile Insurance Company, 
Hartford Fire Insurance Company, German American Insurance Company, Phoenix 
Insurance Company, City of London Fire Insurance Company, Virginia Home Insur- 
ance Company, Lion Fire Insurance Company, Imperial Fire Insurance Company, 
Commercial Union Assurance Companv, the Fire Association of Philadelphia, North 
Carolina Home Insurance Company, Insurance Company of North America, Connet- 
icut Mutual Life Insurance Company. In these companies they carry risks amounting 
to the immense sum of $10,000,000. 

It may readily be conjectured from what we have said that this is one of the largest 
agencies in the country. Their patrons are among the most influential business men of 
the city, and their excellent management of their affairs ranks them as gentlemen of 
universal executive ability and intelligence. 

The members of the firm are Messrs. Jno. Wilder Atkinson and Edward Wilson 
Manning, both Virginians by birth, who have resided in Wilmington nineteen and 
twenty-two years, respectively. Their establishment is one of the leading representative 
business institutions of the city. 

J. K. MclLHENNY, Wholesale and Retail Drug Store, 

Corner of Market and Front Street. 

A neat and attractive drug store is not only an ornament to any city, but an abso- 
lute necessity in any community of metropolitan pretensions. It is with pleasure, 
therefore, that we give space to a brief description of that which heads this article. It 
stands in the front rank of the leading establishments of the kind in Wilmington, is 
complete in all of its appointments, and in the enjoyment of a large and steady patron 
age. It was founded in 1869 by Jas. W. Lippnitt & Co., and came into the hands of 
the present proprietor in 1871. He occupies a two-story brick building, 30x50 feet in 
dimensions, handsomely fitted up and conveniently arranged. A stock of an average 
value of $6,000 is carried, which embraces patent and proprietary medicines of all 
kinds, pharmaceutical preparations, perfumeries, fancy goods, and a full line of drugs 
and druggists' sundries. One skilled and experienced assistant and two porters are 
employed, and special attention is paid to the prescription department. His trade is not 
confined to the city, but extends into all the surrounding country, amounting annually 
to from $12,000 to $14,000. 

Mr. Mcllhenny is a native of this city, a skilfuU and experienced druggist, and his 
establishment is worthy of a liberal patronage at the hands of the public. 

ALFRED MARTIN, Co./tmission Merchant and Manufacturer of Turpentine, Rosin, 

&'c., Office No. 7 Dock Street. 
We have presented, in a general way, in the editorial portion of this work, the 
advantages and resources of this city for the manufacture and exportation of turpentine, 
rosin and their products, and it now falls within the province of this portion of the book 
to present, in detail, a brief sketch of the leading establishments whose commercial 
magnitude and extensive transactions make up the sum total of the city's trade in this 
the principal department of her commerce. And in doing this, we feel called upon to 
make especial and particular mention of the enterprise founded in 1854 and ever since 
conducted with so great success by Mr. Alfred Martin. His office is located at No. 7 
Dock street, but the factory is situated on the west side of the river, the building and 
yards covering an area of 170x390 feet. The factory building is completely arranged 
in respect to all the details of the business, being provided with all the latest and most 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 103 

improved machinery and apparatus known to this branch of industrial pursuit; the mo- 
tive power for pumping water is furnished by an engine of 15-horse power. Twelve 
persons are employed in the different departments, and an average stock of from 
810,000 to $15,000 is carried on hand to meet the demands of the trade. The line of 
production and manufacture embraces spirits of turpentine, Venice turpentine, rosin, 
tar oil, rosin oil, paint oil, spirits of tar and naptha, deck and spar oil, navy, brewers, 
brush-makers and waxmakers' pitch and bright and black varnish. These products are 
manufactured principally from crude turpentine and tar, and are sold by Mr. Martin at 
the factory to exporters and consumers, his annual transactions aggregating not less than 
$150,000. 

Mr. Martin is a Virginian by birth, coming to Wilmington forty-nine years ago. 
He is one of the oldest men now in business in the city, and is the most practical, 
scientific and experienced manufacturer in his line of productions in the State, So 
generally is this fact appreciated, that Mr. Martin is recognized in the trade as authority 
upon all matters appertaining to this branch of business. He is moreover one of the 
most substantial and enterprising business men of Wilmington. 

NORTHROP & GUMMING, Proprietors of the Wilmington Mills, Manufacturers of 

P. P. Lumber and Dealers in Cypress Shingles, Saw and Planing Mills and Yards 

at Foot of Castle Street. 

The lumber trade of Wilmington, especially with foreign ports, is of much greater 
magnitude than is generally supposed, and it affords occupation in its various ramifica- 
tions to a large number of persons. There are but few of the best informed of the 
business men of the city, who have watched with sufficient interest its late developments 
and enlargements, or who have reflected upon the unlimited resources about them yet 
undeveloped, but certainly to be drawn upon in the near and swift approaching future. 
The location of Wilmington and its favorable situation and accessibility to the immense 
lumber regions of the State, places the city in the most favored position with reference 
to this great branch of the industries of the country, and should make her one of the 
leading lumber markets in the South. The trade is by no means in its infancy, having 
been for half a century or more represented by some large and influential establishments, 
among which, perhaps, the oldest still in existence, and certainly one of the most enter- 
prising and extensive is that of Messrs. Northrop & Gumming, which was estabhshed by 
Isaac Northrop, Esq., in 1832. The existing firm succeeded to the business in 1866. 
Their facilities for the sawing and preparation of lumber for shipment are most complete 
in all respects. Their mills and yards are situated at the foot of Castle street, the plant 
covering five lots and having a frontage on the river of 330 feet. Vessels are thus 
easily loaded directly at the wharves of the firm. The mills are thoroughly equipped 
with the latest and most improved machinery and appliances known to this line ot in- 
dustry. The motive power for ihe saw mill is supplied by an engine of lOO-horse 
power, that of the planing mill by a 45-horse power engine. A force of from 
forty to fifty persons is constantly employed, to whom about $300 is paid in weekly 
wages. Each mill has a capacity of 30,000 feet per day. Their trade, it is hardly 
necessary to say, is very large and located at different points in the West Indies, South 
America and on the Spanish Main. They also make a specialty of Stanley's celebrated 
patent process and apparatus for treating timber. It is an improvement upon all other 
processes for the preservation of wood, known as kyanizing, burnettizing and creosot- 
ing. While this process is especially designed for the treatment of piling, wharf and 
bridge timbers, it is equally adapted for use in the case of railroad sills and cross-ties. 
Full information and particulars will be furnished on application. 

The individual members of this prominent firm are Messrs. Samuel and W, H. 
Northrop and W. A. Gumming. Mr. Samuel Northrop is at the present time a member 
of the Gity Board of Aldermen, while Mr. Gumming is the Haytian Vice Gonsul at this 
port. Such being a brief resume of this representative establishment, it is scarcely nec- 
essary to add in conclusion, that its influence upon the industrial thrift and general 
well-being of the community is of a highly beneficial character, and to no small degree 
promotive of the prosperity of the city. 




104 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

D. A. SMITH, Dealer in Furniture, Ac, No. 112 North Front Street, {Smith Building.) 

Mr. Smith commenced his present business in 1866, and by his energy, enterprise 
and well-known business ability has increased and extended it until it now ranks as the 
leading establishment of the kind in the city. He occupies three warerooms at the 
above number, the lower storeroom being 25x120 feet in size, and the two upper rooms 
each 50x120 feet in dimensions. They are the largest show-rooms of the kind in the 

South, having a floor surface of over 20,000 
square feet. The building in which they are 
located was erected in 1872, at a heavy cost, 
and was constructed especially for the business 
under consideration. The stock is complete in 
all particulars, and of an average estimated value 
of $10,000. It is conveniently arranged into 
separate departments. Upon the first floor are to 
be found wardrobes, side-boards, chiffoniers, 
book-cases, secretaries, parlor desks, extension 
tables, hat stands, window shades, walnut cham- 
ber sets, rattan chairs and rockers, beadsteads, mattresses, looking-glasses, mats, rugs, 
mattings, &c. On the second floor carpets, parlor sets, marble-top centre tables, lounges, 
walnut, poplar and cottage chamber sets, bureaus, dressing cases, wash stands, corner 
and side what-nots, fancy rockers, chairs, &c. On the third floor is a varied assortment 
of cane seat chairs, wood seat chairs, cane and wood seat rockers, wash stands, toilet 
tables, saloon and round tables, mattresses, spring beds, cottage sets, children's chairs 
and carriages, safes, dining tables, cribs, cradles, children's bedsteads, &c. Five assist- 
ants are employed in this house and an annual business of over $30,000 is transacted 
throughout both North and South Carolina. The prices asked in every department are 
so reasonable as to have gained for this house the reputation of being the cheapest furni- 
ture establishment in North Carolina. 

Mr. Smith was born in this city, and is widely known and recognized as one of 
the leading and most enterprising merchants in the city. Such in brief is the history of 
the accomplishments of a house in which is shown clearly the sound judgment, perse- 
verance of intelligent management that have characterized its founder, and which has 
tended in a great degree to enlarge the trade and influence of the city. Few houses 
anywhere can show so honorable and successful a business career, or have obtained so 
wide-spread and enviable a reputation for uniform courtesy, fair dealing and the exer- 
cise of the most Hberal policy. 

WEST & CO., Wholesale and Retail Grocery, No. 127 Market Street 

Occupying a prominent position by reason of its active operations and the extensive 
and varied assortment of stock carried, the establishment of Messrs. West & Co. merits 
liberal consideration among the leading business enterprises of the city. This house 
was established in 1871. With each succeeding year the sphere of its operations has 
been widened and enlarged, until to-day few houses in the city are in the enjoyment of 
so desirable a class of trade. The firm possesses a thorough appreciation of the wants 
and demands of the trade, which coupled with their intimate knowledge of the business, 
enables them to offer marked inducements and advantages to their patrons. Their 
business premises consist of a three-story building, 30x140 feet in dimensions, and a 
warehouse used for storage purposes. They employ five assistants and carry an ample 
stock on hand. The trade of the establishment is not confined to the city, but extends 
into all the surrounding country, aggregating a very handsome amount per annum, their 
sales being both at retail and wholesale. 

The members of the firm are both natives of this city. By judicious management, 
strict attention to business and undoubted integri«;y, they have succeeded in building up 
a large and growing business, their house ranking among the first in the city in its line. 
They are entirely worthy of public confidence and esteem, and merit the fullest measure 
of business success. 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 105 

SOL BEAR, Wholesale and Retail Clothtng, Boots and Shoes, Dry Goods, Hats and Caps, 

Carpets, Oil Cloths, Rugs and House Furtiishing Goods, No. 20 Market Street. 

The largest and most prominent establishment of this particular kind in this city is 
that of Mr. Sol. Bear, located at No. 20 Market street. It was founded as early as 
1853 by the firm of S. Bear & Bro. , the present proprietor succeeding to the business 
in 1882. The premises occupied consist of a large three -story building at the above 
number and two upper floors of the building adjoining. The line of goods handled 
consists of ready-made clothing, staple and fancy dry goods, boots and shoes, hats and 
caps, of all of which the assortment is complete and carefully selected. The stock car- 
ried on hand will average from $50,000 to $75,000 in value, from which a very large 
business is transacted m the city and throughout the twelve adjoining counties. Six 
assistants are employed in the prosecution of the business of the house. 

Mr. Bear was born in Germany, and came to this city thirty-three years ago. He 
is an energetic, reliable and enterprising business man, and his success is the result of 
a close application to business and a thorough knowledge of all the details of his trade. 

WHEELER Sl WILSON MANUFACTURING CO., J. E. Morris, Mananger, 

No. 119 Princess Street. 

The Wilmington agency of this company is a very important one, representing, as 
it does, nine counties in this State and four in South Carolina. It was established here 
in 1873, with J. & J. Johnson as managers. They were succeeded in 1877 by W. B. 
Orr, and in 1882 the present manager, Mr. J. E. Morris, took charge. The premises 
occupied are conveniently situated, large and commodious, being a three-story brick 
building, 20x60 feet in size, especially fitted up and furnished for the transaction of this 
line of business. Mr. Morris gives employment to sixteen agents and assistants and 
runs eight wagons. He carries on hand an average of about 200 machines and trans- 
acts an annual business in this territory of about $35,000. 

Mr. Morris was born in Georgia, and has resided in this city since July, 1882. Like 
many successful business men, it has been by steady application and an earnest devotion 
to his calUng, that he has risen to the prominent position he now holds. With his ex- 
perience and facilities, and by means of the just and liberal policy that marks his 
business career, together with the acknowledged superiority of their machines, this 
agency presents advantages and inducements such as entitle the Wheeler & Wilson 
Manufacturing Company to the most favorable consideration of all classes of buyers, 
both in this city and throughout the surrounding country. 

W, P. OLDHAM & CO., Corn Mill, Dealers in Meal and all Kinds of Feed, 

No. 12 Dock Street. 

In reviewing the business interests of Wilmington, we wish to call especial attention 
to such enterprises as that in which Messrs. W. P. Oldham & Co. aie engaged, which 
is the conversion of corn into feed and meal, and also dealing in those products. This 
mill was started by Mr. Oldham in 1876, under favorable circumstances, and the growth 
in business has been steady and gratifying. It is equipped with all modern improve- 
ments and appliances for making No. 1 products, and fully sustains the reputation of 
the city for enterprise and manufacturing ability. This representative establishment is 
located in the center of the city traffic, the building being a three-story structure, 30x60 
feet in dimensions. Its capacity is 300 bushels in twelve hours, requiring the services 
of three assistants in its operations. The trade of the concern extends throughout both 
North and South Carolina, and is in a healthy and prosperous condition. The various 
machinery and appliances in use are driven by an engine of 35-horse power. An ample 
stock is kept constantly on hand to meet all the demands of the trade. 

Mr. Oldham was born in Orange County, North Carolina, and has resided in Wil- 
mington for a period of eighteen years. He is an energetic business man, who, by his 
enterprising ability and business policy, has done much towards furthering the best in- 
terests and reputation of the city, and while achieving material prosperity for himself, 
has gained the respect and esteem of the community. In all respects his establishment 
is a representative industrial enterprise. 
14 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 107 

CHAMPION COMPRESS AND WAREHOUSE COMPANY, Corner Red Cross and Wafer Sfs. 

The City of Wilmington possesses facilities for the successful handling of cotton 
which are unsurpassed, if equaled, by any other Southern port. Cotton can be cheap- 
ly delivered here from all parts of the South, by means of the lines of railroads center- 
ing here, to the presses, while the largest sized vessels are easily loaded directly at the 
wharves of the compress companies, thereby saving very considerable items of expense 
in the matter of drayage and lighterage. Port charges also are less here than at other 
points, and expenses generally much more moderate. 

First among the grand enterprises of which the people of Wilmington speak with 
a natural feeling of pride, stands the Champion Compress and Warehouse Company, 
entitled by its magnitude, and the important part it has played in the commercial pro- 
gress of the city since its inauguration, no less than by its extensive operations, to a 
prominent place in this volume. Its success sufficiently attests the advantages of Wil- 
mington as a point for the reception and shipment of the great Southern staple. The 
company was organized and incorporated in 1879, with a capital stock of $100,000. 
The stockholders consist of a number of the most prominent business men of the city, 
. the present officers of the company being E. J. Pennypacker, President, and T. B. 
Harriss, Secretary and Treasurer. Upon these two gentlemen the executive manage- 
ment of the enterprise mainly devolves, and it is to their intelligent direction that the 
rapid growth and remarkable success of the company is largely due. Some very valu- 
able wharf property is owned by the company on both sides of the river. Their cotton 
compress and warehouse is located on the river, at the foot of Red Cross street, adjoin- 
ing the W., C. & A. and W. & W. R. R. depots. This warehouse, with sheds, covers 
an area of 344x66 feet, while on the west side of the river they have the largest guano 
warehouse in the State, it being 45x300 feet in dimensions. They do already two-thirds 
of the entire local business in the storage of fertilizers. Their press is of the celebrated 
Morse Patent, and exerts a pressure equal to 1,800 tons, having a ninety- inch cylinder 
and a compressing capacity of 800 bales of cotton in ten hours. The superior power 
and construction of these presses has reduced freight to the minimum and made the 
business of compressing a most successful and remunerative one in Wilmington. The 
machinery used is all new and of the most improved pattern. In the various depart- 
ments of their business the company gives employment to a force of forty men, whose 
weekly pay-roll exceeds $250. They handle annually about 75,000 bales of cotten for 
shipment to New York, Boston, Baltimore, Liverpool, Amsterdam, Bremen, Barcelona, 
Revel, Russia, and other foreign ports. 

Mr. Pennypacker, the President of the company, is a native of Pennsylvania, but 
has resided in Wilmington for twenty years. He is the Collector of this port, and is 
well known in commercial circles for his enterprise, integrity and superior business 
qualifications. The Secretary and Treasurer, Mr. T. B. Harris, is a native of this 
city, and brings to the discharge of his important duties an ability and intelligence that 
rank him as one of the most capable business men of the city. Under such a manage- 
ment the future of the enterprise, so far as success is concerned, is fully assured. 

We regret that space does not permit us to indulge in more extended mention of 
this great undertaking, which is exerting so vast an influence for good upon the general 
welfare and prosperity of the city. Sufficient, however, has been said, we may hope, 
to convey to the mind of the reader some idea of the importance of the cotton trade of 
Wilmington, and of the leading business enterprise connected with its continued growth 
and further advancement. 

THOS. C. CRAFT, Wholesale and Retail Furniture, Manufacturer of Mattresses, 

No. 20 South Front Street. 
So much pride is now taken in the ornamentation of our homes, that fine furniture 
has become an indipensable article to all who desire to keep up with the progressive 
spirit of the age. Prominent among the business houses of Wilmington engaged in 
this line of trade, is that of Thos. C. Craft, No. 20 South Front street. Since the time 
of the inauguration of the enterprise, the business of the house has steadly increased 
under the untiring efforts and straight-forward dealing of its proprietor. He is thorough- 



108 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

ly experienced in the furniture business, and a competent judge of all matters connected 
with the trade. Besides meeting the wishes of the trade in grace of design and beauty 
of finish, he has made it his paramount endeavor to add those essential qualities which 
are lacking in many cases, namely: durability and completeness of workmanship. This 
house is the leading establishment of the kind in the city, both as regards the amount 
of stock carried and the magnitude of its operations. The business premises occupied 
consist of three floors of a building, 25x80 feet in dimensions, where a stock averaging 
$7,000 is carried, and employment is given to seven assistants. In addition to the 
furniture business, Mr, Craft is an extensive manufacturer and dealer in mattresses. The 
trade of the establishment is confined to North and South Carolina, and amounts annu- 
ally to about $35,000. 

Mr. Craft is a native of this city, and is a young gentlemen of energy, intelligence 
and unusual business ability. He is fully entitled to the confidence and esteem of the 
pubHc, and is well deserving of the prosperity he enjoys. 

WILMINGTON IRON AND COPPER WORKS, Hart, Railey & Co., Proprietors, 

Manufacturers of Iron ^ Copper and Wood Work, Nos. 19 and 21 South Front Street. 

Among the many business enterprises contributing to the credit of the City of 
Wilmington as a manufacturing and business center, there undoubtedly is no one single 
establishment that has done more by its capable management, practical skill and busi- 
ness ability to extend the reputation of the city's industries than the enterprise which 
heads this article. Messrs. Hart, Bailey & Co. have taken the lead in the adoption of 
all modern improvements, and rank as the leading establishment of the kind in this 
section. Their business premises, including their machine shops and store, cover a 
quarter of a block of ground on South Front street. They give employment in their 
brass foundry, machine shops, copper works and boiler shops to sixty workmen and 
mechanics, to whom $500 is paid in weekly wages. Their works are supplied with all 
the latest and most improved machinery and appliances, which are driven by an engine 
and boiler of 25 and 30-horse power, respectively. They are prepared to do all kinds 
of iron, copper and wood work, including wood mouldings and ornamental wood work, 
gas fitting and plumbing. They carry a full stock of plumbers' and machinists' supplies 
and steam fittings, and are agents for the Atlas Engine Company's manufacture of port- 
able engines. Their annual transactions aggregate a very large sum, and their business 
extends over the States of North and South Carolina, Mississippi, Alabama and 
Georgia. This house has made for many years a leading feature of their business the 
manufacture of copper turpentine stills, having been pioneers in this direction, and have 
always held the prestige for excellence of work. 

The individual members of the firm are Messrs. H. A. Burr and E. P. Bailey — the 
former a native of New York and a resident of this city for ten years; the latter a native 
of Sweeden and a citizen of Wilmington for fifteen years. They are both active, ener- 
getic and practical business men, and their enterprise is a credit to the city, ranking 
among its representative establishments, and is deserving of all the commendation we 
can give. 

5. P. SHOTLER & CO., Naval Stores, No. 229 North Water Street 

This house, which is engaged in the business indicated above, is a representative 
establishment in its line, having one of the largest and most extensive naval store yards 
in the city. It was established in 1882 by Mr. S. P. Shotler, who resides in Savannah, 
Georgia. This gentleman also has a branch house in Boston, but the principal establish- 
ment is in Savannah. The wharves and vard in Wilmington cover an area of 366x66 
feet, where five persons are given constant employment in the prosecution of the busi- 
ness. Shipments are made of naval stores, to the West, the Provinces, and foreign 
countries. 

Mr. J. W. BoUes, who is the manager of the business in Wilmington, is a gentle- 
man well known in commercial circles, and conducts the important affairs in his charge 
with an ability and success that is deserving of the highest commendation. 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 109 

N. J AC OBI, Wholesale and Retail Dealer in Hardware, also Paints, Oils, 

Sash, Doors and Blinds, No, 10 South Front Street. 

The term hardware is one of those indefinite, comprehensive words, of which it 
may be said that it almost includes, as its name imports, every ware that is hard. Popu- 
larly, it is understood to embrace all the unclassified manufactures of iron and steel, 
including all the appendages of the mechanic arts, as well as many articles pertaining 
to common life, as various in appearance, size and uses as can well be conceived. It 
is a trade of great importance, and one deserving of careful consideration in any review 
of a city's commercial advantages and resources. The establishment which heads this 
article was founded in 1856 by James Wilson, who was succeeded by the present pro- 
prietor in 1868. Mr. Jacobi started with ample capital for meeting all the demands of 
the trade, and has succeeded in building up a very flourishing and prosperous business. 
His stock of general and heavy hardware is full, complete and carefully selected, em- 
bracing everythmg usually carried in this line. He also deals extensively in paints and 
oils of all kinds, doors, sash and blinds. His stock on hand will average from $15,000 
to $20,000. His storeroom is centrally located at No. 10 South Front street, the build- 
ing being two stories high and 25x120 feet in size. There is also a large warehouse in 
the rear for storage purposes of bar iron and nails. Six assistants are employed in the 
establishment, and an annual business exceeding $40,000 is transacted throughout 
North and South Carolina. Mr. Jacobi also deals in stoves, being manufacturers' agent 
for twelve of the largest and best factories in that line. 

Mr. Jacobi is a native of South Carolina, but has resided in this city for a period 
of twenty-one years, having been on duty under Gen. Whiting during the latter half of 
the war. He is probably as widely known throughout the State of North Carolina as any 
merchant within its borders on account of his connection with various benevolent and 
beneficial orders. The Knights of Honor are largely indebted to him for the extension 
of the Order in Eastern North Carolina. He also introduced the Orders of the Ameri- 
can Legion of Honor and the Royal Arcanum, put in existence the first Council in the 
State, and by his influence greatly added to the extension of these Orders. He is a 
popular and enterprising citizen, fully conversant with his trade, devoting his personal 
attention to its management, and by a long and honorable business career, well deserv- 
ing of the esteem in which he is held. 

KENAN & FORSHEE, Merchandise Brokers, Corner North Water and Chestnut Streets. 

In reviewing the commercial and industrial interests of a city there will be found, 
outside of what may be termed the regular branches, certain classes of business which 
exert an important influence on the progress of the city towards prosperity and commer- 
cial prominence. Of these there are none more entitled to favorable consideration than 
that of merchandise brokerage. In pursuance of this business, brokers necessarily in- 
fluence the value of the leading articles of merchandise, and, while doing this, their 
assistance is invaluable alike to the buyer and seller. It is a business requiring the 
exercise of the strictest integrity, the best of business ability and most enterprising per- 
severance. Messrs. Kenan & Forshee possess these necessary qualifications in an 
eminent degree, and rank as the leading firm in the city engaged in the same line of 
operations. The business was originally establised in 1875 by Mr. Forshee, the present 
firm being subsequently formed. Their office is large and conveniently arranged, and 
four assistants are kept constandy employed. Their business is, of course, entirely 
local, and ranges from two to three million of dollars annually. 

The firm is composed of Messrs. W. R. Kenan and J. M. Forshee. Mr. Kenan 
was born in Kenansville, Duplin County, N. C, and has lived in this city for nineteen 
years. He is one of the City Board of Audit and Finance. Mr. Forshee is a native 
of Philadelphia, and came to Wilmington eleven years ago. They are both gentlemen 
of high social and commercial position, and in the consideration of the community no 
firm takes a higher rank or is more deserving of the success which it has achieved and 
the reputation it sustains. 



110 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 




LOUIS J. OTTER BOURG, Wholesale and Retail C/othing, Nos. 22 to 28 North Front Street. 

Within the past iew years a most important and complete revolution has taken place 
in the clothing trade by the universal introduction of ready-made clothing. Our best 

houses are now those which have perfected ar- 
rangements for securing custom-made clothing of 
superior quality and of equal value in style, finish 
and workmanship to that manufactured by mer- 
chant tailors. These remarks are more especially 
called forth by our desire to call public and general 
attention to the mammoth wholesale and retail 
clothing establishment of Mr, Louis J. Otterbourg 
of this city. It was established by that gentleman 
in 1878, and has enjoyed a career of marked and 
substantia) prosperity. Two floors of a building, 
at the above numbers, 40x100 feet in dimensions, 
are occupied. Here will be found displayed a 
large, elegant and unsurpassed assortment of 
custom-made clothing, embracing garments of 
every grade and style for men, youth, boys and 
children, and which cannot fail to please the most 
fastidious. The stock carried will average not 
less than $35, 000 to $50, 000 in value. The store- 
rooms are well lighted and attractively arranged. 
Five polite and experienced assistants are em- 
ployed, and an annual business of from $75,000 to $100,000 is transacted throughout the 
States of North and South Carolina and Georgia. All trade outside of the city is strictly 
C. O. D. . 

Mr. Otterbourg is a North Carolinian by birth, and has resided in Wilmington for 
a period of six years. He is a young gentleman of pluck, energy and enterprise, all of 
whose operations are based upon a policy of honorable as well as liberal dealing, and 
few similar houses in the South can offer its patrons so substantial advantages as this 
representative establishment. 

J. B. MUGGINS & CO., Family Grocery, No. 125 Market Street. 

Every business venture that evidences in its management a genuine spirit of energy 
and enterprise is entitled to due consideration in a work of this character. A well- 
managed and conveniently located family grocery is of especial interest to the citizens 
of a community, inspiring them, as it does, with confidence that they will be supplied 
with choice and fresh articles for family consumption. The establishment of Messrs. 
J. B. Huggins & Co. is pre-eminently one of this class, and its proprietors, being live 
and energetic business men, thoroughly acquainted with their trade and its requirements, 
are already in the enjoyment of a liberal patronage, although the present firm only dates 
its existence from January 1, 1884. Their location is one of the very best in the city 
and their customers are among the best class of the citizens of Wilmington. The 
building occupied is three stories in height and 25x110 feet in size. They employ three 
assistants, and carry an assortment of goods valued at $4,000. Their stock is always 
complete and of the choicest and freshest quality to be obtained in this market, consist- 
ing of all kinds of family supplies, both staple and fancy. 

The members of the firm are Messrs. J. B. Huggins, and F. G. Robinson. Mr. 
Huggins is a North Carolinian, has resided in Wilmington since 1851, and was for some 
time one of the City Aldermen. Capt. Robinson has resided in this city since 1858. 
He was for a considerable length of time foreman of the Little Giant Engine Company, 
No. 1, and was afterwards, until recently. Chief of the City Fire Department. 
They are both well known as citizens and business men, and enjoy a high reputation 
as straightforward and honorable merchants. 

This house was established thirty years since by the father of Mr. Huggins, and 
has been in existence since, except a few months in the latter part of the late war. 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. Ill 

C. B. WRIGHT, Flour, Pearl Hominy and Meal, Nos. 320 and 322 lilutt Street 

This is the largest and most extensive enterprise of the kind in the city. It was 
established in 186S by Alexander Oldham, who is still connected with the establish- 
ment. The mill is a four and one-half story building, 70x60 feet in dimensions, and 
has three run of stone for flour and corn. There are also three hominy mills for pearl 
hominy. It is thoroughly equipped in all its appointments, the machinery in use being 
all of the latest and most improved pattern, driven by an engine of 85-horse power and 
a battery of two boilers, which can be* run either together or separate. The engine 
room is strictly fire-proof and is 27x60 feet in size. An average stock valued at 
$20,000 is carried, and seven assistants are employed. The capacity of the mill is 
about 500 bushels in ten hours. The trade of the establishment extends into the States 
of North and South Carohna, amounting annually to from $75,000 to $100,000. 

Mr. Wright is a native of this city; Mr. Oldham is also a North Carolinian, and 
has resided here for twenty-eight years. They are both experienced business men. 
Their mill is a credit to the city, and deserves prominent position among the represen- 
tative business interests of the city. 

P. HEINSBERGER, Live Book and Music Store, Nos. 107 and 109 Market Street. 

In every community there aie men whose enterprise, activity of mind, and strong 
business talents bring them into prominence — men in whose hands a branch of business, 
ordinarily commonplace, is built up and managed with such skill that it assumes a 
prominent position in the mercantile history of a city. Such a gentleman and such a 
business is that of Mr. Heinsberger. His present enterprise was established in 1868, 
and by prudent management, and a thorough and practical knowledge of the business, 
has been brought to its present large and growing proportions. Mr. Heinsberger 
occupies a two-story building, 30x80 feet in dimensions, where he carries a stock of an 
average value of $25,000. It embraces stationery of all kinds, pianos and organs, 
fancy goods, chromos, guitars, violins, banjos, strings, &c., and is unsurpassed in the 
city. Four assistants are employed, and an annual business of from $40,000 to $50,000 
is transacted in the city, surrounding country and parts of South Carolina. Mr. 
Heinsberger is a German by birth, but has resided in Wilmington for thirty years. He 
is one of the most enterprising and enerjetic merchants in the city, and is held high in 
public esteem and popular favor. 

D. L GORE, Wholesale Grocer and Commission Merchant, 

Nos. 2 and 3 South Water Street. 

In a history of the advance and development of the City of Wilmington, with 
reference to commercial affairs, the wholesale grocery trade must always occupy a very 
prominent position as a branch of mercantile pursuit, contributing in no small degree to 
the commercial importance of the city. Among those houses whose extended transac- 
tions and high standing entide them to special mention is that of D. L. Gore, it being 
one of the largest establishments in the city. It was founded in 1877, by the firm of 
Gore & Gore, the present proprietor succeeding to the business in 1878. It has had a 
prosperous and successful career, its business steadily increasing with each succeeding 
year. The building occupied is 32x60 feet in dimensions, two stories in height and 
contains a full and complete stock of carefully selected groceries in great variety, the 
average stock carried amounting to $8,000 in value. A general commission business 
is also transacted. The tradf of the house is confined mainly to the States of North 
and South Carolina, amounting annually to the handsome sum of $75,000. Six 
assistants find constant employment in the different departments. 

Mr. Gore, who is a native of North Carolina, has been a citizen of Wilmington for 
seven years, and is an active business man of high standing in commercial circles and 
a gentlemen of sterling worth. Promptness and reliability are leading characteristics of 
this house, and it is deserving of unlimited patronage. 



112 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

L HANSEN & CO., Ship Chandlers and Grocers, No. 9 South Water Street 

In every city there are individual examples of men whose connection with its 
business pursuits, whose prominence in all matters of industrial enterprise, and whose 
record for integrity, honesty and industry make them objects of special note and worthy 
of extended consideration in a work of this kind, wherever an exalted commercial rep- 
utation is recognized and respected. In this city there are but few men now engaged in 
business, or associated with the industrial interests of the city, that stand higher, 
either individually or as a firm, than do Messrs. L. Hansen & Co., whose busmess is 
the subject of this article. This house was established by its present proprietors in 
1877, and has enjoyed a career of gratifying and well-deserved prosperity. A large 
and carefully selected stock of both groceries and ship chandler stores is kept constantly 
on hand and a business of extensive proportions is transacted, extending throughout 
the States of North and South Carolina, requiring the services of three assistants. The 
building occupied is 40x75 feet in dimensions, located at No. 9 South Water street, in 
the business center of the city. The individual members of the firm are Messrs. L. 
Hansen and A. Smith. The former was born in Denmark, the latter in Sweden, and 
they have each resided in this city for eight years. They are both active, energetic 
and enterprising busmess men, thoroughly conversant with every detail of the line of 
business which they so ably represent. 

Another enterprise in which these gentlemen are engaged, and one which is exer- 
cising a highly beneficial influence upon the trade and reputation of the city, is that 
of the 

CAROLINA OIL COMPANY, 

of which this firm are sole proprietors. Under this name they are extensively engaged 
in the manufacture of pine wood creosote oil, and wood spirits, creosote, black varnish, 
navy pitch, pine tar oil, Stockholm tar, pyroligneous acid and worm-proof paint. They 
manufacture under their own patent, and are the only firm in the United States so 
doing that is engaged in this branch of manufacture. This enterprise was founded by 
Messrs. Hansen & Smith in 1881, and manufactures mostly to order for shipment to all 
parts of the world. The factory is located at the foot of Church street, the building 
being 168x50 feet in dimensions. It is supplied with machinery of the most improved 
pattern and design, which is driven by an engine of 15-horse power. The capacity 
of the factory is about forty barrels per week, and three assistants are employed. 

This firm are the only manufacturers in this country of pure vegetable pine wood 
creosote oil. This oil is derived from a distillation of pine wood, and is a very superior 
article for the preservation of wood from the injurious effects of the sun and weather 
when applied before painting, and especially where it is not intended to paint the wood. 
This oil contains a large per centage of creosote, protecting the wood from the attacks 
of worms and insects — particularly from the Teredo, or salt water worm. It also pre- 
vents the shrinking and swelling of deck planks, the decay of oakum and timber, and 
the rusting of nails and spikes. It is worthy, therefore, of special recommendation to 
railroads and ship builders. It is a sure preventative of dry rot, and is claimed to be 
the best and most reliable preservative of cross-ties, piling, railroad and bridge timbers. 
Parties interested in the subject will promptly receive full information, certificates of 
well-known persons who have fully tested the oil, and all other particulars by addressing 
the CaroHna Oil Co. , P. O. Box 551, Wilmington, N. C. 

ADRIAN & VOLLERS, Wholesale Grocers and Liquor Dealers, 

Commission Merchants and Provision Dealers, Cornet of Dock and Front Streets. 
Standing prominently forward among the great commercial houses of this city, this 
extensive and veteran house has claims upon the attention of the reviewer of the busi- 
ness interests of Wilmington that are possessed by few houses in the city. The high 
character earned by nearlv twenty years of honorable business enterprise, the great 
resources and facilities accumulated and acquired during that time, the experience of 
the wants of the trade, gained by long observation of its requirements, and the energy, 
business ability and liberality that characterizes all operations of the house, command 
for it a conspicuous and honored position among the mercantile institutions of the 
country. 



WILMINGTON— PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. Il3 

The establishment was founded by its present proprietors in 1865, and has from the 
start exerted a wholesome and continually increasing influence in the support and pro- 
motion of the interests of the City of Wilmington as a center of supply for the large 
area tributary to the city, particularly in the Hnes to which the house is specially de- 
voted. They supply a heavy and growing trade throughout both North and South 
Carolina, their annual transactions in all lines amounting to more than half a million of 
dollars. Their stock of groceries and liquors is probably the largest in the city, being 
of an average value of $60,000. They also transact a large general commission busi- 
ness, and are extensive dealers in all kinds of provisions. Their business premises are 
centrally located, large and commodious, the building being a two-story structure, 
60x150 feet in dimensions. In the different departments of the house, they employ 
eighteen assistants and keep two traveling salesmen constantly on the road. 

The individual members of the firm are Messrs. A. Adrian and H. Vollers, both 
natives of Germany and residents of Wilmington thirty and thirty-five years, respec- 
tively. Each of these gentlemen have at different times been members of the City 
Board of Aldermen. They employ a large capital in their business, and the aggregate 
of their trade constitutes an important factor in the commercial wealth and progress of 
Wilmington. 

IV. I. GORE & SON, Commission Merchants, Nos. 5 and 7 South Water Street. 

Few business houses in the city can advance so many claims to popular notice and 
favor as the one whose name stands at the head of this article. The age of this house, 
the high standing which it has always maintained in the mercantile world, the great 
reputation which it sustains, not only in the South, but all ever the United States, as 
well as the magnitude of its business operations, all unite to render it eminently deserv- 
ing of the highest consideration on the pages of a work devoted to an impartial 
presentation of the advantages of the City of Wilmington, from a commercial and 
industrial point of view. This house has had a most creditable history and prosperous 
career. It was founded in 1869 by the senior member of the existing firm. In 1881 
his son, Mr. Albert Gore, was admitted into partnership, and in 1883 the present firm 
was formed by the admission of Mr. M. J. Corbett. Their business premises are lo- 
cated at Nos. 5 and 7 South Water street, the building being two stories in height, and 
47x92 feet in dimensions. In the different departments ten competent and experienced 
assistants are employed. A general commission business is transacted by the firm, but 
specialties are made of meats, lard and peanuts, of which they handle immense quan- 
tities. Their trade extends all over the United States, and amounts annually to a sum 
exceeding half a million of dollars. They have ample capital employed in the business, 
and possess facilities of a superior character for the transaction of their extensive 
operations. 

The house has a wide reputation for liberal and honorable dealing, is entirely reli- 
able and responsible, and all its transactions are marked with a careful regard for the 
interests of its patrons and the maintenance of its high standing and integrity. 

OOWANSAW AND PLANING IVIILLS, Edward Kidder & Son, Proprietors, 

Mills on River, at foot of Marscelor Street. 

The mention of the above establishment in lumber circles carries with it a prestige 
and confidence that is seldom enjoyed by any firm, and this has been gained by a busi- 
ness career of half a century. The enterprise was first inaugurated in 1840 by the 
firm of Patter & Kidder. In 1868 the present firm succeeded to the business. The 
mills, lumber yards and timber pen of the firm cover an area of ten acres of ground. 
They operate both saw and planing mills, which are each supplied with all the latest 
and most approved machinery that money can buy, or that human ingenuity has been 
able to devise, while the motive power is furnished Dy two engines of an aggregate of 
105-horse power. The planing mill has a capacity of 20,000 feet of lumber per day, 
while the total capacity of the mills is about 11,000,000 feet per annum. Of this pro- 
duct the firm exports about 8,000,000 feet annually to the West Indies and South 
16 



114 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURiE. 

America. They employ forty-five men in the different departments of their business. 
The firm is composed of Mr. Edward Kidder and his son, Mr. Geo. W. Kidder. 
The former is a native of New Hampshire, but has resided in this city for over fifty 
years. He enjoys the enviable distinction of being the first to utilize saw-dust as fuel, 
thereby saving a heavy expense in the running of steam saw-mills. He is one of the 
oldest and most respected of the citizens of Wilmington. His business enterprise and 
attainments have been by no means confined to this one enterprise. Perhaps no citi- 
zen of this city has done more to develop her resources and increase and extend her 
reputation. As a business man his career and untarnished reputation are too widely 
known to require comment here. His works, enterprise and general usefulness speak 
for him in terms sufficiently expressive, and entitle him to the greatest esteem and con- 
sideration of this community. Mr. Geo. W. Kidder inherits those superior business 
qualifications of his father that have made his name synonymous with success, and 
stands high in commercial and financial circles. As a firm, none stand higher in the 
community or are more fitting representatives of the trade and commerce of Wilming- 
ton. 

M. M. KATZ, Staple and Fancy Dry Goods. No. 116 Market Street. 

Of the many houses whose history is well worthy of occupying a place in this work 
of useful information, is the old and popular establishment of Mr. M. M. Katz, which 
stands at the head of the dry goods trade in this city. It was founded as far back in 
the history of the city as 1845, by S. B. Kahneweiler. In 1857 the firm name was 
changed to S. B. Kahneweiler & Co., and in 1860 the present proprietor took sole 
charge of the business. The stock carried comprises a complete assortment of staple and 
fancy dry goods, selected with great care, and of a value averaging from $25,000 to 
$50,000. Enjoying the best of opportunities for buying profitably, this house is enabled 
to offer the public the best of both foreign and domestic goods at exceedingly low prices 
and upon most reasonable terms. The business premises occupied are extensive and 
commodious, the building being three stories in height and 20x80 feet in dimensions. 
In the different departments seven experienced assistants are employed in attending to 
the wants of the many patrons of the house. The trade enjoyed, while very large 
locally, extends into all the surrounding country, aggregating a very handsome sum 
annually. 

Mr. Katz is a native of Germany and is an old resident of this city, having lived 
here for thirty years. He has served as one of the City Aldermen and is one of the 
Directors of the State Insane Asylum. He is universally regarded as a conscientious, 
energetic and reUable business man, well deserving of an extended share of public patron- 
age. His establishment is a credit to the city, and a just source of pride to its proprietor. 

DR. W. W. HARRISS, Cotton and Naval Store Broker, 

No. 109 North Water Street. 

The enterprise displayed by those engaged in the cotton and naval stores business 
in the City of Wilmington has been, and is, of such an active and aggressive 
character as to center at this port a very large trade, which gives every assurance of 
continued increase and development. Many operators in this direction are now tran- 
sacting a business that results in an aggregate yearly trade of very large proportions. 
Of the several departments of this branch of business there is none of more importance 
than that of the broker, and among those who must be accorded a conspicuous and 
deservedly prominent position Dr. Harriss is certainly worthy of most favorable mention. 
He commenced his present business in 1882, and his standing in commercial circles is 
unquestioned. He transacts a general cotton and naval store brokerage business, in 
every detail of which he is thoroughly experienced, and has met with most gratifying 
success, as his constantly increasing operations fully attest. 

Dr. Harriss is a native of Wilmington, and for a period of two years was President of the 
Chamber of Commerce. He is widely known in the community, and is highly respected 
and esteemed, both in commercial circles and by the public generally, as an enterpris- 
ing, energetic and reliable business man. 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 115 



W. E. SPRINGER & CO., Wholesale Hardware and Dealers in Agricultural Implements, 

Nos. 19, 21 and 23 Market Street. 

There is probably no one branch of trade that is more important in its relations, 
influence and bearing upon the commerce of a city than the hardware business. It is 
extensive in its influence, because there is no other branch — no industrial or mechanical 
pursuit, profession or artistic avocation, that is not more or less dependent upon the 
hardware business in some of its manifold ramifications. The generic term hardware 
includes all the unclassified manufactures of iron and steel, all the appendages, imple- 
ments and mechanical appliances of the mechanic arts and professions, agricultural 
tools and implements, articles as varied in appearance, distinct in application and 
different in size and use as can well be conceived. There are no distinct specialties in 
this market, the various industries and demands of the trade being supplied by the 
enterprise of Messrs. W. E. Springer & Co., in whose wonderfully complete stock will 
be found every article entering into the general hardware trade, both heavy and shelf, 
made in the best eastern and foreign factories and sold at lowest prices. Of the firms 
dealing in hardware in this section none occupy a more prominent position, or conduct 
their business with more enterprise and intelligence. The present firm succeeded the 
late firm of Jno. Dawson & Co. in 1880, and their ample facilities and resources, to- 
gether with an excellent business capacity, had an immediate and marked effect upon 
the trade, naturally resulting in a business steadily increasing with each succeeding year. 
Their place of business is in a convenient locality, consisting of a two-story building 
sixty feet front by one hundred and fifty feet deep, which is filled with a stock of an 
estimated value of $25,000, consisting of the miscellaneous articles entering into the 
trade, general hardware for all purposes, builders', mechanics', architects, and farmers 
tools and implements, saws, shovels, edge tools, bolts, springs, rasps, nuts, &c. They 
make a specialty also of all kinds of agricultural implements. In the prosecution of the 
business they employ seven assistants and keep one traveling salesman constantly on 
the road. Their trade lies principally in North and South Carolina and Georgia, and 
amounts to $100,000 annually. This house is not only the largest in this section, but 
compares favorably with any in the South, standing in the front rank of the business 
houses of the City of Wilmington, not only in regard to the quantity of their stock and 
extent of their business transactions, but also for enterprising, energetic and systematic 
business habits and capacity. The firm is composed of Messrs. W. E. and Jno. C. 
Springer, both natives of this State, who have resided in Wilmington for a period of 
nineteen years. They are gentlemen of sterling integrity and worth, noted for their 
enterprise, business qualifications and unquestioned reliability in all the walks of life. 

MATT. J. NEVER, Wholesale Grocer, Liquor Dealer and Commission Merchant, 

Nos. 21Q and 218 North Water Street. 
Prominent among those houses engaged in the above branches of trade, and worthy 
of liberal mention in a work devoted to a detailed and descriptive review of the com- 
mercial and manufacturing enterprises and advantages of the City of Wilmington, is 
the establishment of Mr. Matt. J. Heyer. This house was established as early as 1846 
by Jno. C. Heyer, who continued the business from that period up to 1883, when the 
business passed into the hands of the present proprietor. In addition to the general 
lines of groceries and liquors, a specialty is made of naval stores, received by the house 
on commission. The building occupied by the store is a two-story structure, 36x103 
feet, where a large and complete stock of the best grades of staple and fancy groceries 
and the choicest wines and liquors is kept constantly on hand, and will average $15,000 
in value. The naval store yard and wharf of the house covers an area of 100x200 
feet, on which is located a one-story warehouse, 36x60 feet in dimensions. In the 
different branches of the business eight persons find constant and remunerative employ- 
ment. The annual transactions of the house will exceed $200,000 — the trade extending 
into all parts of the surrounding country. Mr. Heyer is a native of this city. He 
conducts his affairs with liberality, ability and a high sense of commercial and personal 
honor, and we are pleased to be able to accord his establishment that position to which 
its extensive^operations and beneficial influence upon the community entitles it. 



116 WILMINGTON PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

PARSLEY & WIGGINS, Saw and Planing Mill. Manufacturers of Sash, Doors and 

Blinds, Corner of Fourth and Ashe Streets. 

The situation of Wilmington with reference to the timber growing districts of North 
Carolina must always give it importance in the lumber trade and its relative branches. 
The magnitude and extent of the trade would be better understood, both at home and 
abroad, by a description of the different establishments in the city, and some statistical 
information in regard to the extent of their operations, which is part of the purpose of 
this work. Some of these establishments are mammoth in their proportions, and sup- 
plied with every requisite facility for the manufacture and handling of special branches 
of the trade. Among the most prominent of these stand that of Messrs. Parsley & 
Wiggins, whose establishment is one of large proportions and of perfect arrangements, 
and occupies such a position among the manufacturing interests of Wilmington as to 
deserve prominent consideration in an enumeration of the enterprises of the city. 

This establishment was originally founded in 1857 by O. G. Parsley, and was 
taken charge of by the present firm in 1879. They are only just putting up their sash, 
door and blind factory, but it will be in full operation by the time this volume issues 
from the press. They expect to do a business in this line all over the South. The 
plant of the mills covers an area of fifteen acres of ground at the corner of Fourth 
and Ashe streets. The sawmill is a building two stories high and 50x125 feet in size ; 
the planing mill building is a two-story structure 50x100 feet, and the sash, door and 
blind factory will be 50x60 feet, also two stories in height. These works are as per- 
fectly equipped and supplied with as complete a complement of machinery as any 
contemporaneous concern in the South, the motive power being supplied by two engines, 
one of 60 and the other of 40-horse power, and give employment to fifty persons, to 
whom $350 is paid in weekly wages. An average stock of one million feet of lumber 
is carried on hand, and an annual business of from $75,000 to $100,000 is transacted. 
The trade of the house Ues principally with the ship building interests of Maine and the 
West Indies. 

The individual members of the firm are Messrs. W. L. Parsley and O. A.Wiggins, 
the latter of whom is a member of the City Board of Audit and Finance. They are 
both young men, enterprising and energetic in all matters of business, and maintain an 
honorable and justly deserved commercial and social position in this community. 

J. L. CROOM, Wholesale and Retail Grocer and Liquor Dealer, 

No. 8 Nofih Water Street. 

In endeavoring to present some record of the commercial houses of the city by 
historical notes, our object in introducing this department of our work is attributable 
more to a desire to gather together remembrances of a useful and interesting nature, 
rather than to seek opportunity for personal compliment. It is quite admissable for us 
to say, however, that Mr. J. L. Croom, wholesale and retail grocer and dealer in 
liquors, belongs to that class of merchants whose enterprise and perseverence, as well 
as sterling integrity and high order of business ability, have given to the commercial 
interests of the city much of their present vigor and development. The enterprise 
under consideration was founded by Mr. Croom in 1882, with ample capital, and at 
once took prominent position in the trade. A large three-story building is occupied, 
which is 30x75 feet in size, and contains a large assortment of goods, consisting of 
groceries of all kinds, together with the purest wines and liquors, the stock on hand 
averaging S6,000 in value. Tl;ree assistants are employed, and an annual business 
amounting to from $40,000 to $50,000 is transacted. The trade of the house is not 
confined to the city, but extends throughout all the surrounding country. It increased 
over twenty-five per cent, for 1883 over the year preceding. Mr. Croom is a native of 
this State, and has resided in Wilmington for two years. By judcious management and 
strict attention to business he has secured a lucrative and flourishing trade, and from 
present indications it would seem that his house is soon destined to become one of the 
largest establishments in this section of the country. 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 117 

DeROSSET & CO., Shipping and Commission Merchants, 

No. 113 North Water Street. 

Among those firms which are most intimately connected with the history of Wil- 
mington, its struggles, growth, and subsequent prosperity, sharing in and promoting 
every matter of public interest, the house of Messrs. DeRosset & Co. is assuredly 
entitled to prominent position and worthy of the highest consideration. It was founded 
in 1839 by A. J. DeRosset, and for nearly half a century has been closely allied with 
the shipping interests and commercial trade and prosperity of the city. In addition to 
a large office, in which three competent and experienced assistants are employed, two 
warehouses are used in the prosecution of the business of the house, one being 25x60 
and the other 25x90 feet in dimensions. A very large business is annually transacted, 
both in Europe and America, which steadily increases with each succeeding year. 

The present sole proprietor of this large and influential house is A. L. DeRosset, a 
native of this city, and a gentleman noted for his enterprise and intelligence. He has 
made for himself an honorable record in mercantile circles, both at home and abroad, 
and enjoys a business prosperity that will compare favorably with that of any establish- 
ment in the city. 

MUNSON'S CLOTHING AND MERCHANT TAILORING ROOMS, 

No. 32 North Front Street. 

No clothing establishment in the State of North Carolina will surpass in general 
excellence and the magnitude of its operations that of Mr. H. H, Munson, of this city. 
The business was founded by its present proprietor m 1865, and by his industry and 
perseverence, together with a thorough knowledge of all the, details and re- 
quirements of the trade, has been built up to its present mammoth proportions. 
His business premises are eligibly situated at No. 32 North Front street, in a handsome 
three-story building, 20x78 feet in dimensions. The stock carried on hand is select, 
and embraces all the latest styles and designs in this important branch of trade. Twelve 
skilled and experienced assistants are employed, and a very large business is annually 
transacted. His facilities for fashionable and desirable goods, perfect fitting and well 
made garments and honest prices, are unequalled by any similar concern in the city, and 
unsurpassed by any establishment in the South. 

Mr. Munson was born in New York, but came to this city thirty-two years ago. 
He is an active and energetic business man, thoroughly conversant with all the details 
and requirements of his business, and has a high and well deserved standing in the 
esteem and confidence of the community in which he resides. 

A. DAVID, Wholesale and Retail Clothing, Gent's Furnishing Goods, Merchant Tailor, &c. 

Corner of Front and Princess Streets. 

To those interested in the study of the progress and advancement made in the 
different branches of trade and commerce, the clothing trade is full of interest. Since 
the time when Adam and Eve first "sewed fig-leaves together and made themselves 
aprons" to cover their nakedness, the history of this important and influential industry, 
and the task of tracing the gradual development and change in the form and fabric of 
men's clothing, is both interesting and instructive. In the commerce of the world to- 
day there is no one branch of industry that exerts a wider or more powerful influence 
upon the general welfare of a business community than the manufacture of and trade 
in clothing, and especially true is this of the City of Wilmington. The subject of this 
sketch first entered into business in this city in 1865, and his establishment now ranks 
as a representative concern of the kind in this section. The building is a large and 
commodious structure, 30x80 feet in size, having three floors and a basement, and is 
conveniently arranged for the accommodation and display of the large manufactured 
stock carried, which embraces men's, boys and youth's clothing of all kinds in every 
variety and style, made from the finest foreign and domestic cloths, down to the modest 
and unassuming jeans. The line of gent's furnishing goods carried is unsurpassed in 
the city, and in the merchant tailoring establishment close attention is always paid to 



118 WILMINGTON PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

perfect fits and first-class workmanship, only skilled and experienced hands being em- 
ployed. Six male and six female assistants are employed, and two traveling salesmen 
represent the house on the road. Ample stock is carried from which a large business is 
transacted in the States of North and South Carolina. Mr. David is a German by 
birth, but has resided in this city for nineteen years. He has given his undivided time 
and attention to his business, and how completely and thoroughly he has succeeded, his 
large and satisfactory trade bears in full measure most gratifying evidence. The peo- 
ple of this community can justly accord him the greatest consideration as a successful 
business man, because he has fully earned it. 

EVANS & Von GLAHN, Dealers in Boots and Shoes, Leather and Shoe Findings, 

No. 117 Princess Street. 
The extent of the territory covered by the mercantile trade of the City of 
Wilmington evidences an amount of ability and business enterprise among her mer- 
chants far greater than would be expected from her population. This has been the 
result of a combination of causes : the favorable geographical position of the city, her 
advantages in the matter of transportation, both by river and rail, but more than all 
from the broad view and business enterprise of her merchants. Among the foremost 
in giving impetus and direction to the trade of the city in that branch of commerce 
which they represent, the house of Messrs. Evans & Von Glahn stands decidely promi- 
nent. It was established by the present firm in 1872, and compares favorably with the 
best establishments of the kind in the South. They are extensive wholesale and retail 
dealers in boots and shoes, also leather and shoe findings, boot fronts, gaiter uppers, &c., 
carrying a complete and carfuUy selected stock in this lineof an average value of $25,000 
to $30,000. They occupy a three story building, 20x60 feet in size, employ four 
assistants and keep two traveling salesmen on the road. Their trade extends into the 
States of North and South Carolina. The firm is composed of Messrs. H. C. Evans 
and H. Von Glahn. Mr. Evans is a North Carolinian by birth, and has resided in this 
city for twenty-five years. Mr. Von Glahn was born in Germany, coming to Wilmington 
in 1845. He was for some time a member of the City Board of Aldermen. They are 
both prudent and honorable merchants, who highly deserve the success that has attended 
them throughout their business career. 

ORIN T. THOMAS, Art Studio, Crayon and Pastel Portraits. 

No. 119 Market Street. 
It is with much pleasure that we call the attention of our readers to the elegant and 
handsomely appointed art studio of Mr. Orin T. Thomas, which is unexcelled in 
general excellence by any of his Southern contemporaries. He is an experienced and 
pains-taking artist, and enjoys a reputation second to none in the countr) . He is 
prepared to do all kinds of crayon and pastel work in the most artistic and life- 
like manner, and makes the finest free hand portraits from any kind of small 
pictures, which are warranted not to fade. He is sparing neither time, trouble or 
expense in his efforts to build up a reputation for the best work in his line, and for hon 
orable and square dealing with all. That such a course is the best policy for him to 
pursue, is abundantly proven by the success he has already met with. Really first-class 
photographs are quite expensive, and as he only furnishes one grade in which he strives 
to compete with the best artists in this country, he has reduced his prices in order to 
introduce his portraits. These portraits are very durable and life-like, and are drawn 
to any size desired. Any change in drapery, &c., can be effected with ease. Some- 
times a hat or bonnet is left off or they may be put on. Portraits can be expressed to 
any part of the country without injury. Should any one wish any work in his line he will 
pleased to correspond with them, giving prices, explanations, &c., as regards the work, 
or refers to the following gentlemen, who have seen and inspected his work : Prof. 
Wm. Wallace Scott, of Cooper Institute, N. Y.; Dr. A. R. Ledoux, 10 Cedar street. 
New York ; Gov. Thos. J. Jarvis, of North Carolina ; Hon. Kemp P. Battle, of Chapel 
Hill, N. C; Maj. Chas. M. Stedman, of Wilmington, N. C; Dr. W. B. Phillips, of 
Wilmington, N, C. 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND ti-tJTURE. 119 

Mr. Thomas was born in Moore County, this State. He was a poor farmer boy, 
and entered school in 1875, when a boy of about fifteen years of age. He continued 
going and teaching until the spring of 1882. During his latter school days he became 
very fond of art — especially so of sketching in crayon, and in the spring of 1882 went to 
Tarboro, in this State, and took a short series of lessons under Mrs. Dorsey Battle, a 
'very fine artist. He was so much encouraged with his success that he applied and was 
admitted into Cooper Institute, New York, in the fall, and studied very successfully 
there for a season. He returned to North Carolina in the spring of 1883, and settled 
in Wilmington, since which time so rapidly has grown his reputation as an artist that it 
is with difficulty that he fills all the orders received for portraits, especially those in 
crayon. It is his intention to visit New York annually, and there keep fully apace 
with the times. His studio is located at No. 119 Market street, in the Yates building, 
and is beautifully and elegantly fitted up. It is full of specimens of his handiwork, 
which display the best artistic skill and accuracy. Mr. Thomas is a natural artist, and 
by his perseverence, intelligence and enterprise has carved his way to a proud and 
prominent position in the world of art. 

GILES & MURCHISON, Wholesale Hardware, and Importers of and Wholesale Dealers 

in Earthenware, China, Glass and Queensware, Nos. 101 and 103 North Front Street. 
There are always to be found in every community, in every branch of trade and 
commerce, certain men about whose character and standing there is no kind of doubt; 
whose record is untarnished, whose business is great in magnitude and stable in chirac- 
ter, and who are generally conceded to be the representatives of those departments of 
human industry with which they are associated. Such is the acknowledged position of 
the well-known firm of Messrs. Giles & Murchison. They are engaged in two separate 
and distinct lines of commercial pursuit, that of hardware and china, glass and queens- 
ware, having an establishment devoted to each. Tljey commenced business under the 
above name and style as hardware dealers in 1873, adding their crockery department 
in 1878. Each store occupied has three floors and is 25x140 feet in dimensions, where 
are carried the complete and carefully selected stocks of goods handled by the firm. 
They deal in all kinds of shelf and heavy hardware, and are both wholesale dealers 
and importers in earthenware, china, glass and queensware. In the different depart- 
ments a force of eight assistants is given constant employment and one traveling sales- 
man is kept constantly on the road. Their trade is very large annually, extending 
throughout both North and South Carolina. 

The members of the firm are Messrs. Clayton Giles and J. W. Murchison, both 
natives of North CaroUna, who have resided in this city eighteen and eleven years, 
respectively. They are both comparatively young men, and are energetic, enterprising 
business men, possessing the confidence and esteem of all with whom they have busi- 
ness relations. They enjoy a social and financial standing equaled by few and surpassed 
by none. 

MUNDS BROS. & DeROSSETT, Druggists, Corner Market and Second Streets. 

Of all the branches of business connected with the mercantile interests of Wil- 
mington, there are none of more importance than the drug trade, and none which 
requires more ability, closer study or a more thorough preparation. One of the largest, 
neatest and most attractive establishments in the city in this line of trade is that of 
Messrs. Munds Bros. & DeRossett, which was founded by the present firm in October, 
1883. They occupy a large and handsome store at the corner of Market and Second 
streets, which is tastefully fitted up, and presents a most attractive appearance. They 
carry a large and carefully selected stock, consisting of pure drugs and chemicals, all 
popular and reliable patent medicines, surgical instruments of all kinds, toilet and fancy 
articles, perfumeries, druggists' sundries, and in fact every article to be found in a first- 
class drug store. They are thoroughly skilled, practical and scientific druggists and 
pharmacists, and enjoy a large and growing trade in their prescription department. They 
possess in an eminent degree the confidence and esteem of the medical profession and 
the public generally, and justly rank as a representative establishment in the line of 
business in which they are engaged. 



120 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURfi, 

COMMERCIAL HOTEL, M. Schloss, Proprieior, Corner Market and Second Streets. 

There is no better hotel in this section than the Commercial, and none which offers 
superior inducements to the traveling public. Mr. Schloss took charge of the house 
two years ago, and has by his politeness and care of his guests, secured a patronage 
that ranks his house as one of the most popular in the State. The building has a 
frontage on Market street of seventy-five feet and a depth of eighty feet. It is four 
stories high, well arranged, and in the center of the city. It has just undergone exten- 
sive repairs and is now on an equal footing with any establishment in the city, and one 
of the best m the State. It is lighted by gas and has all modern improvements and 
conveniences. There are thirty-five sleeping rooms, nicely furnished and stricly neat 
and clean, and capable of accomodating 100 people. The dining room can seat forty 
persons. Connected with the hotel is both a bar and billiard room. Ten male and five 
female emp'oyes are required in different capacities. The parlors are two in number 
and neatly furnished. Every department has been newly repaired, and no pains or ex- 
pense spared by the proprietor and his assistants to make the sojourn of guests pleasant 
and agreeable. Ladies and gentlemen visiting Wilmington, either for business or pleas- 
ure, will find at this popular house the best of accomodations, a table abundantly 
supphed with the best in the market, and the most polite attendance. The prices 
charged are exceedingly moderate and within the reach of all. In the management 
and direction of the house Mr. Schloss is most efficiently assisted by the ladies of his 
family, and in every department the most perfect system prevails. We would not. do 
justice to this favorite hotel did we fail to mention Messrs. W. H. Shearen and S. A. 
Schloss, the polite and obliging clerks. These gentlemen are thouroughly conversant 
with their business, are both courteous and polite, and are ever on the alert in looking 
after the comfort and convenience of all those stopping at the hotel. 

Mr. Schloss was born in Bivaria, and has resided in this city for two years. He is 
a successful and efficient hotel manager, an obliging and attentive host and is univer- 
sally popular with the traveling public. 

H. BRUNHILD & BRO., Wholesale Liquors and Tobacco, 

No. 18 South Front Street^ 

When we take into consideration the fact that the articles of whisky and tobacco 
pay to the general government more than half the amount derived from the internal 
revenue of the country, it conveys to our mind some idea of the magnitude of the 
interests in these branches of trade. The wholesale trade in Wilmington is represented 
by several substantial houses, the most prominent of which is that of Messrs. H. 
Brunhild & Bro. 'This house was originally founded in 1868, by the senior member of 
the firm, Mr. H. Brunhild, the present firm being formed in 1870 by the admission 
into the concern of his brother, Mr. L. Brunhild. From the beginning the house took 
a prominent position in the trade, both as to the amount of their business and their 
standing in commercial circles. The high grade of goods carried in stock, the mod- 
erate prices at which they were sold, quality being considered, combined with their 
energy and enterprise, and their well-known reliability as merchants, soon built up and 
extended their business, until to-day it ranks first in the State in this line. Their goods 
are distributed throughout the States of North and South Carolina and Georgia, keeping 
two travelers constantly employed. They carry an average stock of $40,000 to meet 
the demands of their immense trade, and transact an annual business exceeding a 
quarter of a million of dollars. They employ in the various departments of their bus- 
iness ten competent and experienced assistants. Their business premises are centrally 
located and conveniently arranged. The building is a two-story structure, 32x100 feet 
in dimensions, in the rear of which they also have a large warehouse. Their stock 
embraces the most reliable and celebrated brands of whiskies and hquors and a full 
Une of wines, both imported and domestic. The firm import direct all their wines and 
brandies, also bass ale and ginness porter. Their tobacco factory is an extensive and 
thoroughly equipped establishment, and is located at Richmond, Virginia. The first 
tobacco factory ever started in Wilmington was put in operation by this firm. 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 121 

Both members of the firm are Germans by birth, Mr. H. Brunhild has been a 
citizen of this city for sixteen years, and Mr. L. Brunhild for fourteen years. They 
are well known in Wilmington as being among the foremost and most enterprising of 
her business men, who are taking the most active part in building up her wealth and 
spreading abroad her reputation. If the city had a few more such enterprising firms 
her growth and prosperity would be much more sure and certain. 

J. H. JONES, Livery, Feed and Sale Stable, No. 312 Princess Street 

In recording the various enterprises of this city, we desire to call attention to the 
livery, sale and feed stable of Mr. J. H. Jones, situated at No. 312 Princess street. Al- 
though the business was only started about two years ago, it now stands in the front 
rank in its line in the city, both as regards sales of horses and mules, and the character 
of the livery stock and vehicles kept on hand for the use of the public. The stables 
are centrally and conveniently located, and admirable in arrangement and appointment. 
The building is 35x100 feet in dimensions, having two floors and a basement. The 
stables are commodious and well ventilated, and can easily accomodate and feed sixty 
head of horses. The arrangements for boarding horses are first-class and terms exceed- 
ingly reasonable. Ten reliable and speedy horses are kept for livery purposes, and four 
careful and experienced hands are employed. 

Mr. Jones is a native of this State, and has resided in Wilmington since 1848. He 
gives his undivided time and attention to his business in all its branches, is a thorough- 
ly reliable, energetic and enterprising business man, and as such is well worthy of the 
patronage and consideration of the public. 

JOHN R, TURRENTINE, General Merchandise and Produce Broker, 

Dock Street, between Front and Water Streets. 

Of the many commercial and mercantile enterprises forming the channels through 
which the trade of cities flows, there are few, if any, having capacity for a wider scope 
and range than the general merchandise and produce business. Few persons are aware 
of the fact that, to conduct successfully a brokerage business in this line of trade, a 
higher standard of business knowledge and ability is essential than in ordinary lines of 
business pursuit. Success requires both activity and energy, together with a keen per- 
ception of the best interests of both buyer and seller. Of those engaged in this line in 
this city, probably the most prominent and influential establishment is that of Mr. John 
R. Turrentine, both from the extent and character of his operations. This enterprise 
was first established in 1876, with ample capital and has since taken an active part in 
promoting the business interests and prosperity of the city. The comprehensive knowl- 
edge of all the requirements and responsibilities connected with this branch of com- 
mercial operations possessed by Mr. Turrentine, together with his enterprising and 
straightforward manner of transacting business, has steadily increased his trade, until it 
now amounts to the handsome sum of one million and a half of dollars, and extends 
throughout North and South Carohna, Virginia and Georgia. Most of the business of 
the house is in Western produce, which is sold in car-load lots, specialties being made 
of New Orleans molasses, meats, flour, grain and rice. The office is centrally located, 
large and commodious, and here four competent and experienced assistants are given 
constant employment. 

Mr. Turrentine is a native of North Carolina, and has resided in this city for a 
period of twenty-one years. He is a member of the Chicago Board of Trade, and 
refers, by permission, to A. K. Walker, Esq., Cashier First National Bank, Messrs. 
Hall & Pearsall and Adrian & VoUers, of Wilmington; Messrs. Robert Carey & Co., 
of New Orleans; Messrs. Geo. P. Plant & Co. and N. K. Fairbank & Co., of St. 
Louis; Messrs. Martin & Bennett, of Chicago, and Messrs. H. A. Hayden & Co., of 
Jackson, Michigan. Through long experience in every detail of his business, and the 
highest reputation for integrity and financial responsibility, he is justly entitled to the 
high position he holds in commercial circles. 

16 



122 



WtLMINGTO^f — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTtJRfi. 



]l\l. H. GREEN, Wholesale and Retail Drugs, No. 117 Market Street. 

In presenting for the consideration of our readers, both at home and abroad, his- 
torical and descriptive reviews of the great industries and commercial enterprises of the 
City of Wilmington, it is necessary and important to select representative institutions 
and establishments, and to consider more particularly those whose success has made 

them conspicuous and gained for their proprietors po- 
sitions prominent in the mercantile history of the city — 
the character of business men being often measured by 
their success, reflecting to a certain extent upon the credit 
and reputation of the community of which they are 
members. ' The drug trade of this, or, in fact, any city, 
is one of the most important factors in its general make- 
up, and exercises an influence not out-measured by any 
other branch of trade. The leading house in this city, 
and certainly the largest in the State, engaged in this 
line is that of W. H. Green, located at No. 117 Market 
street. It was founded by Messrs. Green & Planner in 
1870, which firm was succeeded by W. H. Green as sole 
proprietor in 1880. With regard to so well known a 
house but little can be said that is not already generally 
understood of its importance as a mercantile enterprise, 
and beyond giving the plain facts, a detailed description 
is unnecessary. A large, handsome and conveniently 
arranged buildmg is occupied, having three floors, and 
being 23x135 feet in dimensions. Capable and experi- 
enced assistants are employed in the house and one trav- 
eling salesman represents the interests of the house on 
the road. The trade of the house is steadily and satis- 
factorily mcreasing in both North and South Carolina. 
The departments are numerous, and embrace American 
and foreign chemicals, proprietary and patent medicines, pharmaceutical preparations, 
together with the largest and most complete stock of drugs and druggists' sundries to be 
found in the State of North Carohna. Special attention is paid to the prescription 
department. 

Mr. Green was born in this State, and has resided in Wilmington ever since 1870. 
His facilities for doing business, and his superior qualifications for its management, are 
unsurpassed in the trade. His establishment is alike an honor and credit to himself 




and this community. 



FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF WILMINGTON, No. 17 Front Street. 

This is a bank, the details of whose history if written, would reflect the financial 
condition of this city ^rom the close of the war down to the present time. Few banks 
in the United States, operating through the period of this institution's life, have wielded 
so powerful an influence, or maintained so prominent a place in the confidence and 
esteem of the community in which they are located, as has the great monetary institu-. 
tion which is the subject of this sketch. It is the oldest bank now doing business in 
the city, and is one of the earliest and strongest of the National banking organizations 
in the South, having been established in 1866, with a capital of $100,000. This amount 
was soon afterwards found insufficient for the extensive operations of the institution, 
and the capital stock was subsequently increased to $250,000. The offices are elegant- 
ly appointed and fitted up, and all interior arrangements are both convenient and 
substantial. The officers of the institution at the present time are : Edwin E. Burruss, 
President; A. K. Walker, Cashier, and Wm. Larkins, Assistant Cashier. It would be 
difficult to select a management for such an institution of greater force, influence and 
more reliable judgment in financial matters than that in whose hands the affairs of the 
First National are placed. The President of the institution is a gentleman of unusual 
experience in such matters, having been for some time Treasurer of the County. The 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 123 

Bank issues notes, receives deposits, negotiates loans, deals in both foreign and domestic 
exchange on all important points and conducts a general banking business. It is an in- 
fluential factor in the banking system of the country, and has always been a strong 
support of the business interests of the city, taking an active part in promoting all sub- 
stantial enterprise, and exercising a wholesome influence upon the material progress of 
this section. 

The following is a statement of the condition of the affairs of the institutior^, at the 
close of business, December 31st, 1883 : 

RESOURCES : 

Loans and discounts $ 733,437 96 

Overdrafts 8,834 62 

U. S. Bonds to secure circulation 50,000 00 

Other stocks, bonds and mortgages 61,949 22 

Due from approved reserve agents - 38,587 14 

Due from other National Banks 22,001 93 

Due from State Banks and bankers 3,345 37 

Real Estate, furniture and fixtures 79,993 46 

Current expenses and taxes paid 9, 189 52 

Bills of other Banks 28,564 00 

Fractional paper currency, nickels and pennies . . 284 27 

Specie 46,081 00 

Legal tender notes _ 22,725 00 

Redemption fund with U. S. Treasurer, 5 per cent, of circulation 2,250 00 

Total $1,107,103 46 

liabilities: 

Capital stock paidin I 250,000 00 

Surplus fund 41,455 76 

Undivided profits 70,499 03 

National Bank notes outstanding 44,990 00 

Dividends unpaid 2,456 00 

Individual deposits subject to check 286,342 60 

Demand certificates of deposit 282, 101 45 

Due to other National Banks 12,800 45 

Due to State Banks and bankers 849 04 

Notes and bills re-discounted 115,009 13 

Total $1 , 107, 103 46 

l¥. J. & B. F. PENNY, Wholesale and Retail Dry Goods, Notio. s and Clothing, 

No. 17 Market Street. 

In writing a descriptive review of the commercial resources and advantages of 
Wilmington, and in mentioning the various enterprises which add so materially to the 
general sum total of the business interests of the city, no house is found taking a more 
prominent part than the establishment which heads this article. It was founded by the 
present firm in 1880. Guided by a business policy founded upon the most honorable 
basis of mercantile integrity, it is not surprising that they now occupy a position among 
the most prominent establishments in the city, and enjoy a trade and reputation that ex- 
tends throughout all the surrounding country. They occupy a two-story building, 
20x100 feei in dimensions, located at No. 17 Market street, and conveniendy arranged 
for the transaction of business. Three assistants are employed, and an annual business 
of $15,000 is transacted in the city and throughout the surrounding country. The 
stock carried averages from $4,000 to $5,000 in value. The assortment is carefully 
selected, and embraces everything in the lines of dry goods, notions and clothing. 
Sales are made at either wholesale or retail to suit customers. 

The individual members of the firm are Messrs. W. J. and B. F. Penny, both 
natives of this State, who have resided in Wilmington for twenty-one years. They are 
substantial and enterprising business men, who, both as a firm and individuallyj have 
achieved the highest position in the estimation of the trade and the consideration of the 
public. 



124 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

I. SHRIER, Wholesale and Retail Clothing and Gents' Furnishing Goods, 

No. 114 Market Street. 

This well-known and popular establishment is the clothing emporium of the City 
of Wilmington. Its proprietor, Mr. I. Shrier, is, in experience, one of the oldest 
clothiers in the city, having been in the business for years. The enterprise was estab- 
lished first in 1870 by the firm of Shrier & Bro., bu*^ on the first of January last the 
present proprietor assumed sole control. Steady application to business, a thorough 
knowledge of all its details and requirements, and a liberal and honorable policy soon 
brought the house into prominence. It is one of the most solid and substantial con- 
cerns in the city. The building occupied is a handsome three-story brick structure, 
20x60 feet in dimensions, situated in the business center of the city. Here will be found 
at all times a complete and carefully selected stock of all kinds ot men's youths' and 
boys' clothing, together with a full line of gents' furnishing goods. The clothing car- 
ried in stock is remarkable for being manufactured from exceptionably good materials, 
for stylish cutting and finish, and for the extensive assortment of styles and qualities 
from which selection can be made. The prices are always reasonable, and Mr. Shrier's 
experience and advantages are such that he is enabled to offer his customers induce- 
ments more favorable than can be elsewhere obtained in the city. The average value 
of the stock carried on hand is from $25,000 to $30,000, and an annual business is 
transacted throughout the city and surrounding country amounting to from $35,000 to 
$40,000, Three experienced assistants are employed in the prosecution of the business 
of the house. 

Mr. Shrier is an European by birth, and has resided in this city since 1870. He 
is an esteemed citizen, a thorough gentleman and an enterprising business man. 

R. F. MITCHELL & SON, Commission Merchants, Millers and Grain Dealers, 

Nos. 20 and 22 Water Street. 

Among the many business enterprises contributing to the credit of Wilmington as a 
manufacturing and commercial center, there is undoubtedly no single establishment of 
any kind that has contributed more by its capable management, practical skill, abund- 
ant means and business ability, to the development of the resources and possibilities of 
this city than the concern that heads this article. It was founded in 1847 by the firm 
of Ellis & Mitchell, and came into the hands of the present proprietors in 1873. It is, 
therefore, the oldest existing enterprise of the kind in the State, has always taken the 
lead in the adoption of modern improvements, and ranks as the most prominent estab- 
lishment in this section. The firm carries on a general commission business and are 
heavy dealers in grain of all kinds, also peanuts. Their storeroom and mill is located 
at Nos. 20 and 22 North Water street, in the business center of the city, the building 
being a substantial two-story structure, 50x100 feet in dimensions, with an L, 40x50 
feet in size, used for the peanut rooms. The mill is equipped with all modern and im- 
proved machinery and appliances for grinding both wheat and corn, and has four run 
of stones. The motive power is supplied by an engine of 70-horse power. There are 
fifteen male and ten female hands employed in the establishment, to whom remunerative 
wages are paid. They carry on hand an ample stock to meet all demands of the trade. 
Their trade amounts annually to half a million of dollars, and is located in Chicago and 
different points in the States of North and South Carolina and Georgia. 

The members of the firm are Messrs. B. F. Mitchell and F. H. Mitchell. The 
former, though a native of Maine, has resided in Wilmington since 1835. He is one 
of the oldest and most influential citizens of the city, for years closely identified with 
her commercial and business interests. Mr. F. H. Mitchell was born in Wilmington, 
and is a gentleman of unusual executive ability, enjoying the confidence and esteem of 
all with whom he has business relations. The establishment of this leading firm is a 
worthy representative of the industries of this community, and is exercising a most 
beneficial influence upon the trade, commerce and material welfare of the city. 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 125 

GEO. HARRISS & CO., General Co.nmission Merchants and Ship Brokers, 

No. 109 North Water Street. 

The establishment of Mr. Geo. Harriss is one of the oldest and most firmly estab 
lished houses connected with the commercial and maritime interests of the City of 
Wilmington, and during its existence has enjoyed a position and standing shared by few 
and surpassed by none. It was founded by its present proprietor in 1847, and is a rep- 
resentative of the business interests of the city. A general commission and ship broker- 
age business is carried on, and two tug boats are run between the city and the sea for 
towing vessels. The tugs are named the Waccamarr and Alpha. Mr. Harriss has an 
extensive wharf on the opposite side of the river for the convenient loading of vessels. 
It is 146x108 feet in dimensions. He takes great interest in all matters pertaining to 
the shipping interests of this port, and was one of the Commissioners of Navigation 
and Pilotage for the Cape Fear River and Bars tor many years. He is a native of the 
city, is closely identified with her advancement and prosperity, and is recognized as a 
representative business man. Mr. Harriss is Vice Consul for the Argentine Republic. 

ALEXANDER SPRUNT & SON. Naval Stores and Cotton. 

This is one of the most substantial commercial firms in the United States, and one 
of the leading representatives in this city, and throughout this entire section of those 
great interests to which the City of Wilmington is indebted for the commercial import- 
ance and prosperity that she now enjoys. The house was established eighteen years ago 
by Alexander Sprunt; by the subsequent admission of his son, Mr. James Sprunt, the 
existing firm was formed. The business has been managed with a practical ability and 
judicious enterprise that have made it a continuous success, and now reaches a grand 
aggregate of $2,000,000 per annum, with no limit as yet discovered to its further growth 
under the same intelligent and experienced management. The offices, wharves and 
warehouses are situated on the continuation of Water street, covering an area of 66x344 
feet. They have an ample cotton sample room, it being 25x30 feet in size ; the ware- 
house is probably the largest in the city, being 60x250 feet. In the prosecution of their 
business they employ from seventeen to thirty persons, to whom $300 is paid weekly in 
wages and salaries. Their business is almost exclusively the exporting of cotton, spirits 
of turpentine, rosins, tar and turpentine, to London, Liverpool, Glasgow, New Castle, 
Belfast, Antwerp and other foreign ports. Their facilities for handling these products 
and loading vessels are unsurpassed, being perfect in every detail and arrangement. 
The house of Messrs. Alexander Sprunt & Son is a prominent factor in the commercial 
prosperity of this section, and one of the principal sources from which the great and 
steadily increasing foreign demand for both cotton and naval stores is supplied. 

Messrs. Alexander and James Sprunt are the individual members of the firm. 
They were both born in Scotland, coming to Wilmington thirty-two years ago. On 
May 1, 1866, the senior member of the firm, Alex. Sprunt, was appointed British Vice 
Consul, a position he still retains. Mr. James Sprunt was in point of numerical order 
the fifth President of the Wilmington Produce Exchange, and in retiring from that 
position in April, 1883, presented to its members, in lieu of the usual condensed report, 
a pamphlet, compiled and published at his individual expense, containing information 
and statistics in reference to this city and port. It is copyrighted, and in book form, 
entitled, " Information and Statistics Respecting Wilmington, North Carolina." It is 
not the province of the work in which we are engaged to indulge in personal compli- 
ment, but in some instances it is impossible to state facts without so doing, and this is 
certainly such an occasion. This bound report of Mr. Sprunt is the most complete, 
well-written and altogether valuable and useful publication of the kind with which it 
has been our pleasure to meet. Although only claimed to be a record of facts, its lit- 
erary merits are of a high order, and we take this occasion to acknowledge the 
immense value it has been to the editor and publishers of this work in the prosecution 
of their labors. 



126 WILMINGTON PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

PRESTON CUMMING & CO., Corn Mill, and Dealers in Grain. Feed and Peanuts, 

Nos. 101, 102, 103, 104 and 105 South Water Street. 

The grain interests of this city may justly be regarded as one of the strongest 
proofs of commercial success already attained and attainable in the future. The sys- 
tem of railroad connections and the unsurpassed shipping facilities with which this cicy 
is favored give her superior advantages in the matter of transportation, and enable her 
millers to place their products rapidly and securely upon the market at most advantage- 
ous rates. 

The representative mills of Wilmington, and we may also add of the State, are 
those of Messrs. Preston Gumming & Co., which were established in 1872. From the 
time of their foundation they have been managed with energy, intelligence and a deter- 
mination to make them the representative establishment of this section, and in this the 
most gratifying success has crowned the efforts of the firm. The corn mill is n. large 
two-story structure, 40x55 feet in dimensions; directly across the street the peanut mill 
is located, this building being also two stories high and 40x55 feet in dimensions. They 
also have two large warehouses for the storage of peanuts and hay. The mills are 
furnished throughout with new machinery of the most approved design and perfect 
workmanship, making them among the best and most thoroughly equipped in the South. 
Two engines, one of forty and the other of ten-horse power, furnish the motive power. 
The amount of stock carried on hand, to meet the demands of the trade, as a matter of 
course varies greatly according to season, but may be said to be from $5,000 to $40,- 
000. In the different departments of their business the firm constantly employ from 
twenty-five to thirty male and female hands. Their trade extends throughout North 
and South CaroHna, and amounts annually to from $130,000 to $150,000. 

The individual members of the firm are Messrs. Preston Gumming and E. J. Lilly, 
Jr. , both natives of this State. The former has resided in this city for a period of twenty 
years, the latter ten years. Enterprise and reliability, together with a liberal policy, 
are characteristics for which this firm is noted, and under all circumstances their under- 
takings can be implicitly relied on. Intimately connected, as they are, with the resources, 
development and prosperity of the city, Messrs. Preston Gumming & Co. have achieved 
a position as richly merited as it has been justly gained. 

C. W. YA TES, Books and Stationery, Pianos and Organs, Photograph Gallery, 

No. 119 Market Street, 

Of the many establishments located on this busy thoroughfare there is none which 
is more noticeable for its extent and attractive appearance than that of Mr. C. W. 
Yates. There are three separate departments to his business, each complete in every 
respect, in every detail and arrangement. The premises occupied are conspicuously 
located at No. 119 Market street, the building being three stories in height and 24x100 
feet in dimensions. His stock of books, stationery, periodicals, magazines and other 
articles usually found in a first-class book store, is probably the largest and most care- 
fully selected in the city. His assortment of musical instruments and musical merchan- 
dise is also very large and varied. He makes a specialty of the Sohmer piano and of 
Mason and Hamlin's organs. The photograph gallery is the largest in the city, as well 
as the most completely and thoroughly arranged. The photographs taken at this estab- 
lishment are remarkable for their faithfulness to nature, their elegant finish, and are 
characterized by ease and gracefulness of position. 

Mr. Yates was born in Guilford County, North Carolina, and started in his present 
business in Wilmington in 1875. He employs seven assistants in different capacities, 
and does the largest local business in his branches of trade. Some idea of the great 
success with which he is meeting can be gained from the fact that his business increased 
thirty-three and one-third per cent, for 1883 over that of the year preceding. Prompt 
and reliable in all transactions his house can be safely commended to the trade and the 
consideration of the public. 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FtJTtJRE 127 

JAMES J. METTS, Merchandise and Produce Broker. 

Office Water Street, between Market and Dock Streets. 

Scarcely to be classed under the industries of AVilmington, and yet intimately con- 
nected with them by association and mutual benefit, the business of Mr. Metts is one 
especially deserving of recognition in this work. There are but few who recognize the 
magnitude and importance of the merchandise and produce brokerage system, and it 
can only be appreciated by singling out and describing the representative establishment 
in this line of business in Wilmington. It is of prime necessity that importers, large 
dealers and producers holding large stocks of goods should be enabled to present their 
goods to dealers for inspection, and, therefore, proper representatives of business tact and 
unquestioned integrity obviate many of the difficulties in the way, and keep steadily before 
the trade different lines of merchandise and kinds of produce in sample, giving grade, 
quality, quantity and price, according the constantly fluctuating changes in quotations, 
supply in the market, &c. The convenience of this system of brokerage applies as well 
to the dealer or buyer as to the producer or seller. Goods can be selected, prices, 
quality and quantity be ascertained, and supplies be ordered and received through the 
agency of the broker, and this in the most satisfactory manner. Mr. James J. Metts 
may be justly classed as a representative broker of this kind in the city, not alone for 
extent of trade, valuable experience and energy, but also for commercial standmg and 
mercantile ability, quahfications which aie sure guarantors of merit and success. He 
originated his business in 1873 with ample capital, and has built up a trade as gratifying 
to himself as it has proven convenient and beneficial to the wholesale dealers of the 
city. An annual business of about $150,000 is transacted, sales being made entirely to 
the wholesale trade in bulk lots. 

Mr. Metts is a native of this city, is stricdy honorable in all the walks of life, and 
has gained in an eminent degree the esteem and regard of the community, and the 
confidence of all with whom he has established business relations. 

BROWN & RODDICK, Wholesale and Retail Dry Goods and Notions, 

No. 9 North Front Street. 

The pride of a city centers in the character of its representative institutions, and it 
is, therefore, only the truly metropolitan interests that are worthy of extended comment 
in a historical and commercial review of this city. In writing a description of these 
institutions it is generally done by comparison, but there is always found a house in 
every branch of business so far in advance of its fellows that comparison is impossible. 
It can only be made the standard, while the others must be written of relatively. This 
reputation is gained and held by the uniform completeness of its stock, the ample 
resources and enterprising spirit of its proprietors and the magnitude and extent of its 
operations. Such an establishment is ernphatically that of Messrs. Brown & Roddick, 
which was founded by the present firm in 1873. It is unquestionably the best and 
leading concern of the kind in this section, and none is entitled to more extended con- 
sideration, both with reference to the high commercial standard upon which its 
operations are based, the extent of business transacted and its influence upon the trade. 
The members of the firm are Messrs. A. D. Brown and Wilkin Roddick, both natives 
of Scotland, and residents of this city for twenty-four and ten years, respectively. They 
are marked examples of the popularity resulting from an honorable, liberal, enlightened 
and enterprising business policy. With such an established reputation, and possessing 
such attributes, it is not a matter of surprise that the house should be a favorite one. 
They enjoy a very large share of. the trade transacted in this city, and from their 
extended eastern connections with the largest and most reliable manufacturers and 
importers in the country, are able to offer their customers advantages that cannot be 
duplicated by any contemporaneous concerns in this section. Their facilities, so far as 
regards the premises occupied, are all that could be desired — the building being two 
stories high, 30x130 feet in dimensions, commodious and eligibly situated. Here will 
be found at all times the most complete and carefully selected assortment of staple and 
fancy dry goods, laces, linens, cottons, silks, velvets, woolens, merinos, &c., together 



128 WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

with a full line of notions, affording an opportunity for selection rarely attainable outside 
of the metropolitan cities of the East. They carry an average stock of $40,000, and a 
business of $150,000 is transacted throughout North and South Carolina. One traveling 
salesman is kept constantly on the road, and sixteen assistants are employed in the 
store. 

Cordially commending this establishment to the consideration of the trade and the 
public generally, and directing attention to the manner in which its affairs are con- 
ducted, the aptitude of its facilities and resources, we take pleasure in saying in 
conclusion, that, ranking first among its line of contemporaries, this firm is of that class 
which commands the respect, confidence and esteem of the community at large. 

J. A. SPRINGER, Dealer in Coal, Wood and Cypress Shingles. 

Office, No. 121 North Water Street. 

Among the representative firms in this city extensively engaged in the coal and 
wood business, whose transactions have assumed great magnitude, the establishment of 
Mr. J. A. Springer may safely be said to be the most prominent. It was estabhshed 
by hnn in 1873, ever since which time the business has been successfully prosecuted by 
its founder. His yards have a frontage of 110 feet and a depth of 125 feet. The coal 
is stored in four large bins. All kinds of wood for fuel is handled, being sawed by 
steam, the motive power being supplied by a portable 'engine. Ten hands are employed 
at a weekly expense of $60. The trade of the establishment is by no means confined 
to the city, but extends into all the surrounding country, and an annual business of 
$40,000 is transacted. Coal is brought to this city from Baltimore and Philadelphia 
and both varieties are sold at these yards Mr. Springer possesses facilities of the best 
possible character, extensive in both detail and arrangement, and is prepared to supply 
the public promptly, in whatever quantity desired, upon the most reasonable terms. 
He also handles cypress shingles in connection with the other branches of his busmess. 

Mr. Springer is a native of Maine, and has resided in this city for eighteen years. 
During his residence here he has held the important and responsible position of 
Assistant Postmaster for four years, and Chief Clerk in the same office for ten years. 
As a prompt and reliable business man, keeping pace with all the advances made in 
each department of his trade, he can offer his customers advantages that cannot be 
surpassed, and deservedly holds the high position accorded him in commercial circles. 

£. PiSCHAU & WESTERMANN,Ship Brokers and Chandlers, and Commission Merchants^ 

204 a?id 206 North Wat er Street. 

In a careful review of each important branch of business in the City of Wilmington 
none will be found to be of more importance than those connected with the shipping 
and maritime interests of the city. One of the leading concerns of whom it is our 
privilege to make favorable mention is that of Messrs. E. Peschau & Westermann. It 
was founded in 1873 by the present firm, and has been continuously successful .ever 
since. They carry on a general ship brokerage business, and are able to offer extra 
inducements to shippers in the matter of ocean tonnage. A general ship chandler and 
commission business is also a feature of their operations. Their business premises are 
72x45 feet in size, where they carry on hand a carefully selected stock, and employ 
three assistants. Their annual transactions are considerable and are almost exclusively 
with foreign ships. 

The individual members of the firm are Messrs. Edward Peschau and Heinrich 
Westermann. They are both Germans by birth, and have resided in Wilmington since 
1854 and 1856, respectively. Mr. Peschau is the Imperial German Consul at this 
port. They are gentlemen of marked business ability and intelligence, and will at all 
times be found both prompt and reliable. With so useful a place among the commer- 
cial interests of the city, and a trade productive of such satisfactory results, their 
enterprise exerts a large influence upon the general welfare and prosperity of the 
community. 



WILMINGTON — PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 129' 

J. H. MALLARD, Harness, Saddlery, Collars, &c.. No. 10 South Front Street. 

An establishment of no little importance to any community is that conducted by 

the harness-maker. All classes are dependent upon him, to a greater or less extent. 

A prompt, reliable and enterprising establishment of this kind in Wilmington is that of 

Mr. J. H. Mallard, which was started by that gentleman in 1880. His ability, skillful 

workmanship, square, honest dealing and agreeable deportment soon won him many 

friends, and his trade steadily grew and prospered. He employs two assistants, carries 

an average stock of $2,500, and transacts an annual business of from 812,000 to 

$15,000. His store is amply stocked and his business one of the best in the city. His 

hi)<"-'- cr """^mibCS-are centrally located and commodious, being 30x75 feet in size. He 

ers and deals in alikindL of narness, from heavy truck to the handsome and 

carriage. Goods are repaired in a prompt and satisfactory manner. 

"Mallard is a native of this State, and has resided in Wilmington for thirty 

5 is a gentleman worthy the confidence and patronage of his fellow citizens, 

/ith whom it will be found a pleasure to have business relations. 

OS & MUNROE, Dealers in Furniture, Carpets, &c., S. E. Corner Market and 

Second Streets, and Second Street, bet. Market and Princess Streets. 

a populous and growing section ot the country, such as this certainly is, there 
ly business houses whose existence is bjt the natural result created by the demands 
necessities of the people, and whir^ as .q matter of course, receive a large pat- 
' from the fact that thev ^ffer to the public those articles which practical and 
•d hfe finrls i^o be p'=^iul. Of such a nature is +he house of Messrs Edirends & 
Munroe, oi tnis city, dealers in furniture. They started oehe enterpjise six years ago, 
and their efforts have been rewarded by the most gratifying^ prosperity and succeess. 
Their store is a substantial three-story brick building, occupying 7,500 square feet in 
size, and they also have a wareroom on Second street between Market and Princess. 
Their stock is ample to meet all the demands and requirements of their large and ex- 
tensive trade, and embraces not only all kinds of furniture but also carpets and house- 
furnishing goods of every description. Their trade is not only very large in the city, 
but extends into the States of North and South Carolina and GeorgiiJ 

The individual members of the firm are Messrs. S. Behrends and W. Munroe. 
They have had long experience in the business in which they are engaged, are enter- 
prising and energetic gentlemen, and highly deserve a liberal share of public patronage. 

PATERSON, DOWNING & CO., Roger Moore, Manager, Exporters of Naval Stores. 

Foot of Mulberry Street. 

Of the many enterprises which give character and reputation to the City of ' '1- 
mington,we know of none which is of more importance to the general welfare of, .he 
community than that of Messrs. Paterson, Downing & Co., of which Roger Moore, 
Esq., has the management and direction. The principal house of the firm is located 
in New York City, but they also have houses in Charleston, Savannah, Mobile and 
Canada, and an agency in Brunswick, Georgia. They are unquestionably the largest 
exporters of sprits of turpentine, rosin and naval stores in America. The Wilmington 
branch of this mammoth institution was founded in 1877, and does an annual business 
of $735,000, affording twenty persons employment. Shipments are made to all parts 
of the world. Every facility is possessed for the convenient handling and shipment of 
the products dealt in, the company having here three large warehouses and two wharves. 
The importance of this establisement to the city cannot be overestimated, entitling it 
to special consideration in a work of this character. 

Its affairs are entirely under the management and control of Roger Moore, Esq., 
of this city, who is the President of the Wilmington Produce Exchange. He is one of 
the most prominent and influential of the citizens of this community, and enjoys in a 
marked degree the esteem and consideration of all with whom he has either social or 
business relations. 
17 



130 -PAST, PRESE 



Mr. Robei. .aterson, the senior member Oi the concc: h "i;?a2ed iv 

^he naval store trade in New York for a great many ye 
connected with the ho'i^'^ of •■^te^son, RiidJerson & Co. 
ness with all the princip. and towns both .-, the IJo^ 

Continent. Daring 1883 i. . cleared from ihi^ oort alone .5 . y^-- 

and exercise a highly beneficial influence upoi; -he gerr^ral ce of thib 

section. 



McDOUGALL & BOWDEN, Dealers an. .hotuners of Carna^is . 

N'->. '^l 

This extensive establishment was started in this citv durinrr the y.- " 

which time it has been in continuous and successful opeiauv.... ^.._ '. ^ 

is located at No. 114 North Front street, having two floors, and is 25x190 Water Stud. 
mensions. They are supplied with all the requisite facilities for ^^ri'" ^. , 

successfully, and employ only first-class mechanics and exercising sper- care^. f ^^ j- 
on hand only material of the best quality. They are enabled, ther*.- re, to '^^ Tf°v °,' 
work that cannot be excelled by any of their comn^titr>rc I'r. ♦u- State for p*^";^^nea 
durability and finish. They are pi p'^ared lO' receive ana .-Keriir- promptly orc^S!!''^ X 
the manufacture of every ar^-' iieir lin^e oi business on the • »st satisfactory ' .^ j*^^ 

They employ sixteen pe^s nsand keep on nand a stock of ca:. .j.::!3, h -ncss, ^""^^f, X 
an average value of* > 000. While th*'e^ trade is very large locally, lirey also ^'''^'^''' 
numerous customers .hr-at-boih y^orth lu^ Sauth Carolina, their annual tr; 

tions aggregating fron . ..yXfO to «t'^0,000. Tiie ndiv'idual members •'' '• • -■ 
Messrs. R. P. M-Oongall ;:;:.;1 F^'. M. Bowden. The fon^^u-Js ,.r«anadia 
has resided here ^o. twelve shears; the l?.t-*:e'- i-- 3 native of this city, iij., , .. — .,.. . 
the firm is ?>n active, v,»/tefprising business man, aiid occupies a prominent position 11. 
the industnai and mercantile circ.es of this community. Their enterprise is a "^'x 
creditable and useful/ one, in every way deserving of the extended patronage and 
consider a ^iiiui of the p'ublic. 




